The National Roofing Contractors Association and other professional roofing organizations recommend roof check-ups twice each year – once in the Spring and again in the Fall. Here are a few things every homeowner should check come Springtime.
Clean-out the Gutters
As the trees shed their last leaves to re-blossom in the coming months, it is likely that the gutters on your roof will become a catch-all. If your gutters get too clogged, the debris may restrict adequate water flow away from your house, possibly causing leaks, additional damage to your roof and interior walls.
Trim Nearby Trees
If your home is surrounded by trees, this is an important step. During the winter months, it is possible that high winds left a branch or two dangling above your roof. It is important to have these branches trimmed during the spring cleaning process.
Replace Damaged Shingles
If your area experienced high winds, hail, or large amounts of rain and/or snow during the winter months, it is important to check to see if there are any damaged shingles. Unless you know what to look for, this is a job for a professional certified roofing company. Strickland Premier Roofing Co can easily identify cracked, fading or missing shingles and replace them for you. Additionally, we will be able to see any other problems in your home’s roof that may be unseen from the ground or to the naked eye.
Check Weathered Pipe Boots
The lifespan of your roof is usually longer than that of your roof boots.
As your roof gets exposed to UV rays and direct heat, the rubber components tend to crack or weather, leaving a gap where water can leak into your home. The best way to make sure your boots are functional is to checked.
Secure Flashing
Flashing is used to bridge the gap between roofing materials and non-roofing materials, such as chimneys, roof slopes, skylights and more. When properly installed, flashing will prevent water from leaking into your home. Over time, it can become loose or even corrode. Additionally the caulking or silicon sealant applied can deteriorate, crack, or pull away.
Flashing should be inspected during your scheduled roof maintenance check. If left unattended, water can literally stream into your home through your chimney base, vents, pipes, or exposed windows.
Inspect For Weather Damage
Roof weather damage is often only discussed after a large storm. Heavy rain, strong winds, hailstorms, and tornadoes certainly threaten homes regularly and cause huge problems. But just as these weather systems can produce significant damage, every day exposure to UV rays, heat and cold temperatures can also cause weather damage.
During seasonal climate changes, shingles and other materials will expand and contract. If weakened by high winds, extreme weather, or continuous exposure, shingles could began to curl and crack.
Call Strickland Premier Roofing Co so we can help you finish your spring cleaning roof checklist.