How to Prepare Your Roof for Spring

4/27/2020

Now is the perfect time to make sure your roof is ready for spring and everything the season brings with it. Not only is spring roof maintenance important to fix any damage that happened during the cold, winter months, but it’s necessary to ensure your roof is ready for this season’s rain and wind.

Below are five easy ways to prepare your roof for spring. These tips take little time to complete, but the peace of mind knowing your roof is in great shape will last a long time.

1.     Clear off the roof and the gutters

Look at the roof and make sure it’s free of any debris like twigs and branches. The same goes for your gutters and downspouts. During the winter months, it’s easy for your gutters to fill with leaves and other types of tree debris. If the debris clogs it, then rainwater can fill the gutters and cause damage. Don’t forget to check the roof and the gutters for animal nests as well.

2.     Inspect for roof damage

If it’s been a while since your last roof inspection, do a check to make sure there aren’t any loose or torn shingles. Also do an inspection around the base of the chimney, and if you see any cracked or dry caulking, go ahead and replace it with new weather-proofed caulking.

3.     Check the area around the house

Sometimes, the easiest way to tell if you have a roofing issue is by looking at other areas of your home. Check both outside and inside walls for cracks or water stains. Also make note if you have any water under carpets or stains on hardwood floors. These could all be indications that you’ve got a leak from your roof or your gutters.

Investigate the attic or crawlspace for any water damage as well. You’re especially looking for any standing water, stains or dampness along the beams.

4.     Cut back tree branches

Tree branches that reach your roof can do damage in a variety of ways. Not only can they fall and crack or shift shingles, they can also puncture the roof if heavy enough, and leaves, twigs and even bird’s nests can make their way into the gutters and downspouts.

This is the time of year to check the trees around your home and cut back any branches that have made their way to the roof. If you aren’t comfortable doing the trimming yourself, we recommend contacting a tree service or an arborist who can do it for you.

5.     Schedule routine roof maintenance

Spring is an ideal time for routine roof maintenance. A roofing professional can provide a thorough inspection of your roof and quickly spot any areas that need repair. Roofers can also let you know the condition of the roof and whether you’ll need a new one in the future, which is valuable knowledge to have as you plan ahead.

Contact your Local Roofing Professional

Afraid of heights? If so, don’t guess about the health of your roof. Instead, call a professional roofer who can climb the ladder and let you know what your roof needs.

Don’t wait until the summer months. Now is the time to call your local roofing contractor and schedule a spring roof maintenance check.