Spring is here! Not only does it bring warmer weather and more outdoor time, it also comes with a lot of cleanup from the wintertime. Yes, this includes your roof! Hail, ice and heavy winds can take their toll on a roof, so it’s the perfect time to schedule an annual inspection to ensure everything is looking good up there. 

Prior to giving ASF a call for an inspection, there are some things you can take care of on your own, provided you’re comfortable and safe if you choose to go up on the roof. Always have someone nearby in case there’s an emergency. Look around for any large debris or branches, and clear out leaves and twigs from the roof and gutters. This will keep your gutters from getting clogged when rain comes through. 

Now, let’s discuss ways you can to prepare your roof for this beautiful season!

1. Remove Any Stragglers

As mentioned above, remove all debris from the roof. This means sticks, pine needles, branches, leaves and twigs need to go. Failing to do this can result in major clogs and damage to your gutters in the future. Clogs and breaks can result in very expensive water damage if left untreated, so this is important to take care of as quickly as possible.  

2. Check For Apparent Damage

Whether you’re up on the roof or not, look around for missing and damaged shingles. This includes chips, dings and loose asphalt. If shingles appear buckled or smooth, they need to be replaced. Additionally, check for broken and missing flashing around the chimney, vents and skylights. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, a professional will need to come out immediately to take a look. Caulking and weatherstripping is a terrific way to prevent seepage into the roof, so if you see rotting or damaged caulk, it should also be replaced. 

3. Look at the Attic

Checking the crawlspaces  and attic for water and light coming in is important. If you spot dripping or standing water or dampness where it shouldn’t be, you might have a leak. Water flows downhill, so check the peak as well. Additionally, mold and mildew are obvious signs of unwanted moisture buildup, so keep an eye out for that. 

4. Check Your Gutters and Make Repairs

You want to be sure your gutters and downspouts are safe and secure. Ice can loosen them up, so give them a once over. Additionally, if you feel you’re able, you can replace your roof tiles, flashing, shingles and caulk yourself. Better yet, have a professional from ASF come out to make sure the job is done safely and correctly. 

Contact ASF Contracting

This kind of prep can be intimidating if you’re not a professional. That’s why we’re here to handle it all for you. If your roof needs some maintenance or just an inspection, give us a call today!