Why Spring Is the Best Time for Roof Maintenance

Watching the snow melt, and seeing the trees and flowers come back to life is one of the best aspects of Spring. The days are getting longer, and the temperature is finally warming up. Once winter is left behind, we can start looking forward to summering on the horizon. Before the weather gets too hot, it is beneficial to get necessary home maintenance taken care of and out of the way. Spring is the best time to perform important roof maintenance.

Your roof withstands a lot of potential damage over the winter. Your roof is often bombarded by snow, ice, and heavy winds that can create damage. Spring is the best time to make sure your roof is in good condition before the weather gets too hot, or any damages get worse.

Visual Assessment

One of the easiest things you can do is examine your roof from the ground. You’ll be able to visually check for debris or missing shingles, depending on your specific roofing material. You may even notice signs of wear and tear on the ground, such as broken roofing material, or a gutter or downspout that is no longer properly attached to your home.

Check Inside First

Your attic space can show several clues concerning the condition of your roof. You’ll want to take your time to carefully explore all areas of your attic, checking the roof as well as the sides and floor. You’ll want to keep an eye out for any clear water damage, or discoloration that could indicate water damage. You’ll also want to check for any musty odors that could indicate damage. You can also check any vent systems for debris or nests that could be preventing proper ventilation. Checking your attic can provide a good indication of the condition of your roof.

Exterior Inspection

Spring provides the perfect weather for exploring your roof for necessary maintenance. Depending on the material of your roof, especially a metal roof, the surface can become hot in the summer months, making it almost unbearable to spend much time up there. Your exterior maintenance involves several different elements. It is important to note that if it is not safe to be on your roof, it is best to leave it to the professionals. The majority of roofing companies offer maintenance services. Their technicians will know how to explore your roof’s surface safely, as well as what small details to look for.

Inspect for Loose, Curling, or Damaged Shingles

Several different roofing materials rely on shingling, including vinyl and metal roofing material. A missing shingle can allow for water to seep into the interior of your home and can also compromise the integrity of the surrounding shingles. Shingles can become lost or damaged due to age, rust, improper installation, or intense weather conditions. Winter provides some of the most extreme weather conditions that can cause shingles to chip, crack, or become completely broken. When caught early enough, replacing the shingle is often the only necessary repair. If left damaged or missing, this can eventually lead to more significant problems in the future.

Check Vents

It is important to know the different elements of your roof system. One important element is your vents. Vents can become blocked by nests and other debris. It is important to keep these vents clear to ensure your HVAC system is working as safely and as efficiently as possible.

Clean, Repair, and Inspect Gutters

Your gutters are a vital part of your roofing system. Your gutters help to remove water that could pose a risk to not only your roof, but your siding and foundation as well. It is important to keep gutters clean so they can operate as effectively as possible. Your gutters operate best when properly cleaned and inspected at least twice a year, once in the spring, and once in the fall. You’ll want to make sure your gutters are clear of leaves, branches, and other debris that could be left over from the previous fall. Too much debris causes gutters to overflow, affecting their ability to protect your home. Once your gutters are clean and inspected, power washing any dirt buildup can ensure your gutters are good to go when it comes to spring showers.

Check and Repair Loose Flashing or Metal Strips

Your roof relies on quality sealant to prevent moisture from seeping into the interior of your home. You want to make sure all elements of your roofing are secure. Anything that is loose needs to be repaired as soon as possible. This also applies to caulk and other sealants. You’ll want to check around your chimney, vents, solar panels, or skylights. If caulking is cracked, spring is the perfect time to reseal these vital areas.

Check for Debris and Moss

In the winter, branches and other debris can be blown around. It is important to check your roof for any debris and remove it. Even a smaller branch can roll around the surface of your roof, creating damage each time it moves. Moss can be a sign of moisture clinging to the surface of your roof. It is important to remove moss and other fungi that can spread and eventually cause damage.

Clean Your Roof

Giving your roof a good spring cleaning is never a bad idea. You’ll want to be mindful of what cleaning options are safe for your specific roofing material. You should never power wash a roof as it could cause damage. It is best to use simple cleaning solutions such as soap and water, along with good quality brushes. Cleaning also helps you spot any additional cracks or damages that may have been missed when the roof was dirty.

Spotting Damage

If you’ve found damage to your paneling or vents, or notice a water leak, it is best to leave repairs to a professional. Water leaks can often be misleading, especially when it comes to your roof. You may think you found the problem area, only to discover the real problem starts somewhere else. This not only costs time, but it can also cost you money. Necessary repairs, especially those involving water, require a professional to ensure the job is done right the first time. This prevents any further damage that could be expensive.