Imagine your home’s roof is a knight with a shield.
It constantly raises its arm in front of your family.
Eventually, the knight’s going to get tired.
Your job is to check that it’s always healthy and capable of doing its job.
Check on your valiant roof every once in a while.
The beginning of a new year is one of the best times.
Knowing what to look for helps solve issues early and keeps you protected for years to come.
Read on to get a comprehensive spring roof maintenance checklist.
Inspect the Attic
Your roof care checklist should start directly below the roof.
The attic is often the first place you notice damage or repairs that need to be made.
Check that the walls have the proper ventilation and insulation.
The higher the R values, the better the thermal performance.
The right amount depends on your energy efficiency needs and the climate around you.
There are also several important clues to look for around the attic walls.
Look for any signs of water damage, such as:
- Leaks
- Rotted wood
- Mold or mildew
- Holes
- Extreme humidity
Spotting these clues allows you to address issues early.
Try to fix small leaks while they only create minor wet spots.
It’s much easier than dealing with a flooded basement full of mold.
Proactive care also saves you money on your energy bills.
Your HVAC system will be able to heat and cool your home more efficiently.
Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can damage the shingles on your roof, causing flooding in the basement or even structural damage.
Clear out any debris from the gutters, such as twigs or leaves.
Make sure they let water flow away from your home the way they’re supposed to.
While you’re cleaning, check for damage.
Are your downspouts connected to the rest of the gutters?
Are there any signs of weakness?
If so, get repairs as soon as possible.
Do you not want to risk climbing to the top of a ladder to clean your gutters?
Try getting a gutter guard to block debris. You can also call a professional roofer to check them out for you.
Trim Tree Branches and Clear Debris
Spring is the season of growth, but that can also mean overgrowth.
That’s why your spring roof maintenance checklist should include some pruning.
Cut back any branches and trim trees that are hanging out over your roof.
It minimizes the risk of them falling over after a storm.
Spring roof maintenance also involves checking your healthy plants.
Make sure that nothing has fallen off of your nearby plants, as they’ve continued to grow during the spring.
Even small leaves or twigs could be dangerous.
They could lead to further damage and encourage fungus and mold growth.
Work with your neighbors if you have trees or plants that go onto both of your properties.
Cutting them down to size will be safer for both of you, and it’ll get done faster if you do it together.
Spring landscape maintenance is another job you can ask a professional to help you with.
Find an arborist to cut a large tree for you.
They may also need to remove the stump to prevent pests from making a home in it.
Check for Signs of Age or Damage
The average roof lasts around 20 years, but you can extend this lifespan with proactive maintenance.
Look for signs of old age, such as discolored shingles or damaged flashing.
They serve as a hint that you may need to replace your old roofing sooner than later.
There are also other signs of serious damage to look out for.
They can occur at any point in your roof’s life cycle.
They include:
- Lifted or missing shingles
- Moss or algae
- Water damage
- Interior or exterior cracks
- Loose or damaged vents
Spring roofing maintenance helps you spot these issues before they become serious.
A simple check could literally keep your roof from toppling in on you.
Get a Seasonal Roof Inspection
Get a seasonal roof inspection at least twice a year, once in the winter and again in spring.
It provides a more comprehensive picture of your roof’s structural health.
Older roofs will need to be inspected more often.
Certain roofing materials require less maintenance and don’t have to be inspected as often.
Another essential factor is the climate in your area.
Phoenix has a warm, dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 64.2° in January to 104.2° in July.
That heat can wreak havoc on your roofing. It can make asphalt shingles, one of the most common materials used in the United States, wear out faster than they would in cooler climates.
Other roofing materials are better suited to the warm climate, such as:
- Tile
- Metal
- Slate
Calling for an inspection after a major storm or other weather event is also smart.
Flat roofs are particularly susceptible to water damage during periods of heavy rain.
Always check your roof after the monsoon season from July to September.
Come out later in the year to check for winter roof damage.
Snow levels are rarely measurable in Phoenix, but high winds can be just as dangerous.
They could create dust storms or rip shingles off the roof.
Inspections are one of the most important parts of roofing maintenance.
Professionals can proactively identify issues you may have overlooked.
They also have all the necessary equipment and experience to complete the job efficiently and safely.
Find a Professional Roofer Today
A comprehensive spring roof maintenance checklist helps you avoid roofing problems all year.
Remember to check your attic, clean your gutters, trim encroaching trees or plants, look for signs of age and damage, and get professional inspections.
JLC Roofing is making a difference in Phoneix and throughout Arizona.
We’re one of the area’s most experienced and respected companies and have repaired and inspected thousands of commercial and residential roofs.
Our expert team is passionate about providing the highest level of customized service.
Contact us for a free estimate today.
Looking for Arizona Roofing Companies?
Trust JLC Roofing for expert roofing services with over 30 years of experience. We specialize in roof repairs, replacements, and emergency services, ensuring your home is protected with quality workmanship.
Contact Us Today at (623) 878-9832 or request a free estimate online!
