Your roof can take a real beating in the winter months. The temperature fluctuations, high winds, blowing branches and debris, and pounding rain are just a few. That’s why it’s so important to inspect your roof in the spring to make sure it is healthy and happy. While it may not be the way you want to spend your weekend, inspecting your roof in the spring can extend its lifespan and can save you money in the future. Most people start their spring cleaning lists by cleaning the garage, giving a makeover to their garden and landscaping. Rarely do people think about spring cleaning the roof. At Williams Roofing, we want to make sure your roof isn’t forgotten during Spring cleaning. That’s why we compiled a roofing checklist for you to follow. While it is another thing to add to your to-do list, crossing it off will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to jump head on into summer.
Confront Your Gutters
Your home’s gutters are a huge part of keeping your roof healthy. Blocked gutters can’t do their job and can let water build up on your roof, potentially damaging the structure underneath which creates the perfect environment for mold. The first step is cleaning out all the visible debris from the gutters. Once that’s done, move to your downspouts. Most people forget about their downspouts, but they are one of the most important parts of your gutter system.
Assess the Roof
Did you know that shingles are the first line of defense on your roof? When you are checking items off your spring-cleaning checklist, make sure to pay attention to the shingles. Just be sure to check from the ground or somewhere safe. Getting on your roof can be dangerous. Below are several things to watch out for when inspecting your roof.
Missing Shingles
If you notice any missing shingles, make sure to get them replaced immediately. If there are more than a couple missing shingles, it may indicate there is a weak spot in your roof. Missing shingles can also let moisture into the roof, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow.
Blistering Shingles
Blistering shingles occur when an excessive amount of moisture becomes trapped in a shingle.
When too much moisture after a rainy winter gets trapped in a shingle, the exterior begins to swell and can burst, causing serious damage.
Buckling Shingles
This type of damage needs to be addressed quickly because they can crack and tear the infrastructure of your roof. Buckling, sagging or soft spots in your roof may indicate internal damage caused by moisture, and can mean the roof is already compromised.
Curling Shingles
Curling shingles can result from improper installation or poor ventilation. If you see any shingles that have edges that are starting to curl, get them fixed immediately.
Stained Shingles
The last way to inspect your shingles is to look for stains or signs of streaking. Both issues indicate that there is a leak somewhere or your roof or the ventilation system is damaged.
Look for Moisture or Mold
As mold, mildew, and algae grow on your roof, they can get under the shingles and compromise the integrity of the entire structure. Fortunately, this can be easy to deal with. There are a variety of sprays and other products that will help you deal with mold, which you can do safety from the ground. It’s important not to leave mold unchecked. If it has time to spread to the interior of your home, it can be dangerous for the entire family.
Check From the Inside
One of the best ways to inspect your roof is from the inside. Go into your attic and look from the inside out. If you see any sources of light, it’s likely that you have a hole somewhere in your roof. You should also look for water damage and mold/mildew growth. If you don’t see it but you smell it, don’t ignore it.
While some people attempt to work through their roof spring cleaning checklist on their own, untrained eyes often overlook things. When you hire a professional, not only will the entire process move quickly, but you’ll be sure that nothing was missed during the examination. Roofing professionals have the experience and expertise to provide you with a comprehensive inspection both inside and out. So, once you’ve cleaned your gutters and trimmed your branches, call your local roofing professional to provide you with a comprehensive evaluation both inside and out. So, don’t pass on your yearly roof evaluation, spring is the perfect time for repairs and preparation for the summer.
If you have diagnosed any of these problems for your roof, contact the professionals at Williams Roofing Company (williamsroofingcompany.com/estimate.cfm). We have been providing high-quality roofing repair and replacement services to Monterey County for over 44 years and can help get your roof ready for the summer.