Spring is a great time to perform maintenance on your roof, as it’s a good opportunity to assess any damage that may have occurred over the winter months, prepare your roof for the summer heat, and recognize when it is time for roof repair or replacement. Performing these roof maintenance tips each spring can help ensure that your roof is in good condition to protect your home throughout the year.
1. Inspect your roof
Start by conducting a visual inspection of your roof to determine whether you need roof repair or replacement. Look for any signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracks, gaps in the flashing, or any areas where water may be pooling. Debris often collects in roof valleys and needs to be removed to prevent decay, mold, and insect infestations that can hasten roof deterioration. Roof inspection includes examining the fascia boards and soffits. These items effectively seal off your attic by boxing in the eaves and may need to be repaired more frequently than the shingles, gutters, or other roof parts. You should also inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Check the flashing for any signs of damage and repair or replace as needed.
If you do not know what to look for, delegate the task to a roofing professional at Peak Roofing & Exteriors. With years of experience under our belts, our roof inspectors know exactly what to look for and how to determine the severity of damages once they are located. A roof inspection is included in most roof maintenance services.
2. Clean Your Gutters
Gutters and downspouts can become clogged with debris over the winter, leading to water damage and leaks. Clear out any leaves, twigs, or other debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. Gutter cleaning needs to be done at least once a year, and may be necessary more frequently depending on your specific circumstances.
Inspect the gutters as you clean them, looking for sagging sections, loose fasteners, and bent or broken gutters and downspouts. It is also a good idea to check the outflow area of your downspouts to make sure they are not directing water flow against the home, eroding slabs or sidewalks, or causing other incidental damages.
3. Check for Water Damage
Look for any signs of water damage, such as water stains on your ceiling or walls, or mold growth. If you notice any signs of water damage, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Some signs of damage to look for include:
- Stains or Discoloration – Look for water stains or discoloration on your ceiling or walls. These can be signs of water infiltration from your roof.
- Sagging or Drooping – If you notice any sagging or drooping in your roof deck, it could be a sign of water damage. This can be caused by the wood underneath the roof deck becoming weakened due to moisture.
- Mold or Mildew – Mold or mildew growth on your roof or in your attic can be a sign of water damage. These organisms thrive in damp, humid environments and can cause further damage if left untreated. Once the roof is damaged mold and mildew may be able to penetrate the home’s interior, causing respiratory problems for some residents.
- Peeling Paint or Wallpaper – If you notice any peeling paint or wallpaper inside your home, it could be a sign of water damage from your roof. Similarly, discolored areas on ceilings are a common indicator of a water leak of some sort. Whether it is plumbing or roofing-related can be determined by inspection, but both causes require professional repair.
4. Trim trees
Overhanging branches can damage your roof and make it easier for animals to access your home. Trees that are located close to your house may pose a risk of damage to your roof or windows during storms, or from falling branches. In addition, trees that are too close to your house can shade your roof and prevent it from drying out properly, leading to moisture problems. Trim back any branches that are close to or touching your roof. It may be tempting to plant a big shade tree so that it will shade your roof, but the potential for damage outweighs the benefits. Additionally, planting too close may have an impact on your home insurance coverage and cost.
5. Replace Damaged Shingles
If you notice any missing or damaged shingles, replace them as soon as possible to prevent water damage. Signs of damage may include any of the following:
- Missing Shingles or Fasteners – Missing or damaged shingles can allow water to penetrate your roof and cause damage to the underlying layers.
- Curling or Buckling Shingles – Shingles that are curling or buckling can be a sign of moisture damage or age. Over time, shingles can become brittle and lose their flexibility, causing them to curl or buckle.
- Cracked or Broken Shingles – Shingles can crack or break due to age, weathering, or physical damage. These damaged shingles can allow water to penetrate your roof and cause further damage.
- Damaged or Missing Granules – Shingles are coated with granules that help protect them from the sun’s UV rays. If you notice missing or damaged granules on your shingles, it could be a sign of age or weathering.
- Warped or Uneven Shingles – Warped or uneven shingles can be a sign of moisture damage or age. These shingles can create weak spots in your roof that can allow water to penetrate.
Get Professional Roof Service from Peak Roofing & Exteriors
If you notice any significant damage, hire a professional roofing contractor at Peak Roofing & Exteriors to conduct a free inspection. Our roofing contractors can perform Spring maintenance on your roof every year, making sure the life of your roof is extended by 5 or 10 years beyond the normal longevity. With over 18 years of roofing experience, there are many benefits to hiring a licensed and insured contractor with us, including:
- Contractor Liability
- Code Enforcement and Permitting
- Professional Experience and Workmanship
Peak Roofing & Exteriors
If you’re looking for an honest and experienced team that can handle your residential or commercial roofing project in Northwest Arkansas, Northern Louisiana, or West Texas, look no further. Peak Roofing & Exteriors can take care of your home or business with quality and integrity. Contact us today and book your FREE inspection!
