Warm weather. Allergies. April showers. That’s right – it’s spring in Northern Virginia. At this time of year, many of us get the urge to do some serious spring cleaning and yard work. But there’s one more thing you should add to your spring to-do list: cleaning up your roof.
Winter can be harsh on a roof, and it’s important to give it some TLC to keep it in tip-top shape.
Cut Back Trees
As the trees near your house start growing again, you’ll want to make sure no branches are endangering your roof. Consider trimming any branches that might bump into your roof, as well as any hanging above that could potentially break off and land on your roof. This will not only protect your roof, but it will also eliminate some of the leaves that could pile up in your gutters this fall.
Clean Your Gutters
No matter how well you cleared out leaves last fall, chances are your gutters need another cleaning after the winter. Not only is it important to ensure your gutters can do their job, but if your drainage system isn’t working properly, your shingles, soffits and siding can be vulnerable to damage. It’s better to be proactive now than sorry later.
Your first step should be cleaning out the visible debris. Next, clean out your downspout. For hard-to-reach areas, you could try using a plumber’s snake or hose to unclog it. Your last resort can be taking it apart and finding the source of the clog. Lastly, do a thorough check of all your gutters to make sure there are no holes, nothing is sagging and you’re not missing any fasteners.
Inspect Your Shingles
You’ll want to make sure your shingles survived the winter unharmed. You might find that you need to patch or replace shingles if they’re starting to break off or wear out. Also look for individual shingles that are peeling or fading – you’ll want to replace those as well. Other issues with shingles include:
- Buckling: This indicates a moisture problem where the framing has shifted.
- Curling: This may occur because of poor ventilation.
- Blistering: This can occur when a large amount of moisture is trapped in a shingle – ultimately causing it to burst.
- Staining: Look for stains or streaks, which can indicate a leak or your roof’s ventilation system is damaged.
Check for Mold
Mold and mildew are always unwelcome visitors – especially on your roof. As they progress, they can seep into the foundation and cause a host of different issues. But, if they’re caught early enough, they’re usually fixable without many major problems.
If you notice mold or mildew on your roof that hasn’t spread too much, there are some home remedies you can try, including zinc or lead control strips. However, mold is nothing to play around with, so early intervention is the safest bet.
Remember Your Attic
Don’t forget to look at your roof from a different angle – inside your attic. You’ll want to check for:
- Any sources of light, which could indicate a hole in the roof, or obvious damage
- Water damage or stains
- Mold or mildew (visible or a moldy odor)
Be Proactive
The spring is an excellent time to make sure your roof is in good working order. The last thing you want is for a small, unnoticed issue to turn into a full-blown emergency. If you notice any issues on your own or want a more thorough inspection, give Dry Home a call and we will be happy to help.
