Seasonal Tips
Time for an Inspection
During the spring, conduct a roof inspection. Ensure you are comfortable with heights and ladders, and that you’re using all the proper safety gear. Otherwise, call a professional roofing contractor to schedule an inspection.
Inspecting sloped roofs:
- Check for dark stains that may signify algae and fungus growth
- Clean clogged gutters
- Remove debris
- Repair any damage to flashing
Inspecting flat roofs:
- Check for cracks in roofing felt
- Check for any spongy spots that may signify a water leak
- Check condition of supports of air conditioners and other mechanical equipment secured to roof
- Repair any flashing damage
- Check inside the building as well. Look for brown spots or rings on the ceiling or water stains on the wall. These signs might signify a leak.
Inspect the Roof for Wind Damage
Wind storms can seriously undermine a roof’s integrity. After strong winds, check the roof for missing or curled shingles and replace any damaged shingles. While inspecting the roof for damage, remove any debris, such as leaves, pine cones, or branches, that the wind may have blown onto the roof.
Spot Checks
Check tar and gravel roofs for any bare spots. Cover exposed tar and gravel with pea gravel. Also, check for any blisters or spongy spots on the roof that might signify a need for professional roof repair or replacement.
Contact us today for any seasonal assistance with your roof – we’d love to help you out!
Clean Out Your Gutters
Summer is an ideal time to clean your gutters. Practice caution when walking on the roof and follow manufacturer’s instructions when using a ladder to reach gutters. Use a shop vac or your hands to remove debris from the gutters. While cleaning out the gutters, check for an accumulation of asphalt shingle granules. Granule accumulation in the gutters could signal it is time to replace the roof.
Remove Moss and Algae from Your Roof
Remove moss and algae from the roof to prevent moisture damage and rot. Brush down the roof, using a scrub brush attached to a telescopic pole to detach the moss and algae from the roof. Use caution when moving on the roof; moss and algae can make the roof extremely slippery.
Perform Any Major Roof Repairs or Replacements
Summer is also the best time to perform any significant work on your roof. If you notice and leaks, cracking, pooling, or other issues during your inspection, consider having a roofing professional do the work during the warm summer months.
Contact us today for any seasonal assistance with your roof – we’d love to help you out!
Time for another Inspection
During the fall, conduct another roof inspection. Ensure you are comfortable with heights and ladders, and that you’re using all the proper safety gear. Otherwise, call a professional roofing contractor to schedule an inspection.
Inspecting sloped roofs:
- Check for dark stains that may signify algae and fungus growth
- Clean clogged gutters
- Remove debris
- Repair any damage to flashing
Inspecting flat roofs:
- Check for cracks in roofing felt
- Check for any spongy spots that may signify a water leak
- Check condition of supports of air conditioners and other mechanical equipment secured to roof
- Repair any flashing damage
- Check inside the building as well. Look for brown spots or rings on the ceiling or water stains on the wall. These signs might signify a leak.
Contact us today for any seasonal assistance with your roof – we’d love to help you out!
Dealing with Heavy Snowfall
In most cases, there is no need to remove snow from a roof. However, if there has been an unusually heavy snowfall followed by rain, you may want to consider safely shoveling away excess snow to prevent roof damage and, in extreme cases, roof collapse.
Sloped roofs:
Homeowners with sloped roofs can use a ladder and a roof rake to remove excess snow from the roof. Be careful no to strike the roof with the rake or attempt to remove all of the snow – it could damage the surface or membrane.
Flat roofs:
Before removing snow from a flat roof, consult a professional roofing contractor. Most flat roofs are designed to carry a lot of weight, but if the snow load is more than the building was designed to carry, hire a professional to make sure the snow is removed safely and without damaging the roof.
Sub-zero Temperatures
If you can do it safely, check your roof for ice dams during cold snaps. Ice dams are caused by melting snow that refreezes as it works its way down the roof, trapping water runoff and causing pools to form. Trapped water can lead to moisture damage and shorten a roof’s lifespan.
Contact us today for any seasonal assistance with your roof – we’d love to help you out!