Roofing Care Tips for Summer

Caring for your roof is the perfect way to be preventive concerning any risk of damage or anticipating repairs that will need to take place. Regular maintenance is beneficial no matter what kind of roofing material you have or how recently it was installed. The early summer months provide a good opportunity for you to care for your roof.

Why Early Summer?

Early summer provides the best opportunity for caring for your roof. In addition to being potentially dangerous to be on your roof with cold temperatures, ice, and snow, the winter and spring months can bring a variety of other inclement conditions that can affect the health of your roof.

Early summer is also the best time because you won’t have to worry about high temperatures making the surface of your roof extremely hot, which can be a danger to your health and physical safety. Maintenance is vital to ensuring your roof lasts as long as possible. By caring for your roof in early summer, you are avoiding the heat, allowing yourself the best chance to catch any damages. You are also providing a flexible timeframe to get a professional in before the fall and winter approach once again.

Roof Care Tips to Consider

Caring for your roof doesn’t have to be complicated, especially if you check it at least once a year. Depending on where you live, twice a year might also be most beneficial.

Roof care can involve inspecting the attic, doing a visual inspection from the ground, and exploring the actual surface of the roof. It is important to always have your safety in mind. If it is difficult or risky to get onto your roof, you should leave the inspections and maintenance to professional roofers.

Removing Debris

Depending on the pitch of your roof, debris can get trapped on your roof’s surface. Possible debris can include dirt, leaves, and branches. Debris should be removed from the surface of the roof to prevent damage. If you have any debris clogging your gutters, you should also remove it from there so that any water will flow away from your roof and your home.

Clean Gutters

Your gutter system can affect the quality and condition of your roof. Gutters help to collect water from rain, snow, and ice, directing it off your roof and away from your home. Gutters should be clear of dirt, leaves, and small twigs that can affect their ability to work right. When a gutter doesn’t work correctly, water can build up and flood back onto the roof. This can reduce the longevity of your roofing material and increase your risk for water damage that can affect both the exterior and interior of your home.

There are many different methods you can use to clean out your gutters. If you use water, what is most important is directing the water flow to your downspout, and taking it slow enough that you don’t cause your gutters to overflow with water. There are different techniques for cleaning your gutters both from the roof and on the ground. If you are uncomfortable with this process, you can turn to a professional to get the job done right.

Check for Damage

Metal roofing is a popular option for homeowners because it is versatile and available in a variety of styles. This means your metal roofing could be paneling, shingles, or another style that provides a different look or feel for your home. Whatever style you may have, it is important to check to make sure every piece is in place and is free of damage. This includes checking for any dents, cracks, chips, or punctures. Even the smallest damage could have lasting effects if not properly cared for.

Many homeowners prefer the shingle look. This style works by overlapping the shingles to protect them from a variety of weather conditions and UV rays. If a piece of roofing is damaged or missing, this can compromise your roof’s ability to protect your home from damage. Early summer is the perfect opportunity to make sure your roof has no current damage, ensuring it’s ready for whatever the weather might throw at it.

Clean Your Roof

A large part of caring for your roof is to keep it clean. Dirt, debris, and other pollutants can build up on your roof’s surface. Cleaning the surface of your roof keeps it looking great while also helping to remove tough debris and grime. It also helps to prevent any risk of mold or fungi from growing.

When cleaning your roof, you want to make sure you follow the correct procedure for your type of roofing. You especially want to avoid any harsh chemicals that could cause harm to your roof. Certain chemicals can damage or weaken the material.

If you are considering using a power washer, you must do so safely. Having too much water pressure can cause pieces of your roofing to become loose or come off. You always want to be as safe as possible and ensure your cleaning process is helpful and not harmful.

Inspect Closely for Leaks

One of the most important tasks your roof has is protecting your home from water damage. Water damage can be sneaky, hiding behind your ceilings and walls until it has had the opportunity to spread. Making sure your roofing material is free of damage is a great way to ensure you are not experiencing any leaks. You will also want to check the caulking around vents, chimneys, and other surfaces of your roof. Additionally, you can examine your attic’s ceiling and walls for any signs of moisture such as mold, mildew, or discoloration.

Schedule a Professional Inspection for Your Roof

Now is the perfect time to provide basic care to your roof. Early summer provides the perfect weather for cleaning the surface of your roof. It is also one of the safest times of the year for moving around the surface of your roof. If you are unable to access your roof safely, or if you’ve noticed any signs of damage, contact the professionals. They have the equipment and knowledge to fix your roof safely.