It’s that time of the year again – time for spring cleaning! Most homeowners think of deep cleaning the inside of their house, but not many consider the outside. Cleaning and maintaining your roof and its shingles are imperative for extending its lifespan. Preventive maintenance can save you thousands of dollars in roof repairs in the long run.
We’ve put together a handy checklist for you to use in keeping your roof clean and sturdy.
1. Check Attic for Leaks
Before heading outside, the first step on our spring cleaning checklist is to inspect your attic for leaks. There are some basic telltale signs of a leak in the roof, such as musty odors, water stains, and bulging patches on interior walls. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to search for a leak.
Head up to the attic and search for mold, black marks, or any stains caused by water ingress. If you can’t find any of these, try simulating the leak. Using a bucket of water or a hose, get your roof wet and wait for the dripping in the attic to start. You’ll probably need an assistant to help you with this step.
2. Clear Debris From the Roof’s Shingles
The next step to spring cleaning your roof is to clear any debris from the top of the roof. Debris such as leaves and twigs on your roof leads to mold and mildew, which are two of the main culprits that cause roof damage. If you feel confident in your abilities, you can use a leaf blower or a rake to remove the debris from your roof. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to contact a professional roofing service.
3. Clear Tree Branches From the Roof
Sometimes large debris like tree branches finds themselves stuck atop your roof. Tree branches scratch and damage your shingles and siding when they blow against your house during storms.
To prevent this damage, you can clear away tree branches hanging over your roof ahead of time. A pair of clippers should work well for thin limbs, but thicker branches may require a pole saw or chainsaw. Always be sure to have someone with you when working on a ladder for safety.
4. Spring Clean Those Gutters
It’s the spring cleaning chore everyone hates, but it’s necessary. Gutters constantly full of leaves, water, and other debris can cause internal and external water damage to your home. It also makes for an attractive home to small rodents, birds, and insects. You certainly don’t need an infestation this spring!
Cleaning your gutters is a simple process. All you have to do is pull out leftover leaves and debris with gloved hands until the water can flow freely through the gutter system.
5. Clean off Mold From the Roof
If you notice mold on your roof, don’t panic. Spray the roof with equal parts water and bleach to clear off any mold. After an hour, rinse the mixture using a hose with a nozzle attachment. Some homeowners may think this is the perfect time to pull out a power washer, but using one could damage your shingles while cleaning. If bleach and water didn’t do the job, try using trisodium phosphate. Use one cup for every gallon of water for the best results.
6. Check for Loose or Damaged Shingles
Your roof is made up of individual pieces called shingles. They are liable to curl, tear off, or separate due to harsh weather conditions bringing snow and ice. Check your roof every time winter passes to find any damaged or loose shingles. Leaving damaged pieces allows mold to grow from the water ingress. You should nail back any curled or lifted shingles as soon as possible.
7. Check Flashing and Chimney
Roof flashing refers to the metal pieces surrounding the chimney, vents, and any skylights in your home. If they aren’t sealed properly, your roof is at risk of extreme damage. Inspect this area for cracks, warped metal, or rust to ensure that everything is in good condition. Unsealed flashing can lead to small holes, allowing unwanted water and bugs into your home. Spring is the best time to check your chimney’s masonry for cracks or holes. You’ll also want to check for any loose bricks that need to be replaced. Heavy rain and snow can chip away at the mortar throughout the year. This degradation creates holes within your chimney, allowing more water to enter your house.
In Closing
Find a business that will inspect your roof for you if you’re unsure of how to maintain your roof or check for loose shingles, mold, leaks, and other problems. Advantage Construction offers roof inspections for those who prefer a professional once-over come spring. The roof is a crucial part of your home, so it’s imperative to keep it up to date on maintenance and clean throughout the years. Contact Advantage Construction today to schedule your roof inspection.
