Spring Cleaning: Roofing Edition

With the spring season right around the corner, homeowners should consider having their roofs checked for possible damage that they may have sustained over the cold winter months. Most people don’t think about cleaning their roofs, but it’s an important part in roof maintenance. Just like roof assessments and regular maintenance for preventative care, a clean roof can actually can help your roof last longer. Here’s how to clean your roof in just 7 easy steps!

1 – Check the attic

Check your attic for signs of water damage, mold, and mildew. The attic can be susceptible to producing mold if there are insulation or ventilation issues, or if a leak is present. You can detect damage by looking out for staining or a mildew smell. If any of that is present, seek the help of a professional!

Professionals are better equipped to pinpoint the cause of damage and have the tools to make repairs before the damage gets worse.   

2 – Inspect and clean the gutters

Your gutters can easily get clogged with debris and prevent rainwater from properly flowing. If rain water doesn’t flow properly off of your gutters and downspout, back ups and overflows can occur.

Trimming your trees in the springtime is also another important part of roof cleaning. Any over hanging limbs or limbs touching your roof should be cut back to prevent any potential roof damage from occurring. Trimming tree branches also helps reduce the amount of leaves you’ll have to clean out from your gutters.

3 – Clear off debris from your roof

Your risk for developing mold or mildew increases if you have a lot of debris on your roof. It also leads to roof damage and if left unchecked, a potential roof replacement. If you can access your roof safely, then you can clear off debris by hand or with a leaf blower. 

4 – Check the flashing and chimney

The flashing can easily pull away from the chimney or from your roof. If this happens, this can create small holes in and around the area. This allows small bugs, water, and moisture to seep through and cause damage. Make sure to inspect those areas and fix them up if you find them. 

5 – Remove any fallen tree branches

If a tree branch, big or small, happens to fall on your roof. It’s smart to remove them as quickly as possible in order to prevent more damage from occurring. Larger branches that fall can create holes in your shingles and allow water to flow in.

For your safety, always consult the help of a professional if larger tree branches happen to fall on your roof.

6 – Look for loose or broken shingles

The snow and ice that can occur during the winter months can be hard on the roof. The extreme temperatures and harsh conditions can cause shingles to curl, separate, or even tear off. Just like the gutters, it’s important to inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Loose, damaged, or missing shingles, could eventually cause mold and water damage.

7 – Keep an eye out for mold and mildew

Mold and mildew is bad for your health. It also is bad for the health of your roof. Mold and mildew can rot wood and erode the asphalt in shingles, which is why it’s important to inspect and clean your roof every season. You can find mold or mildew by any discolored stains or streaks on your roof. 

Hire the help of a professional roofer in San Antonio

Not all roofing tasks can be done alone. That’s why it’s important to hire the help of a professional roofing company in San Antonio to assess your roof for damage. Put your safety first this spring season.

At Norwest Roofing in San Antonio, we will make sure your roof is in top shape this coming Spring. Contact us today for a free estimate.