The same way you would get your home for Winter, you also need to prepare it for Spring. And more specifically, roof spring cleaning.

Why?

Your roof has endured countless snow storms and fluctuation in weather. (Which we’ve discussed will expand/contract building materials)

Not to mention, ice dams are notorious to arise in the Winter. The water leaks will begin to show themselves in the Spring when snow and ice have had a chance to melt.

And lastly, Nebraska is about to embark on hail season and you definitely want to be ready.

So here are 4 things you need to know for roof Spring cleaning

1. Check for Fallen Tree Branches

Trees can give in under the weight of snow, ice, and heavy winds over Winter so it’s important to check where branches may have fallen. This is especially true if it has obstructed or damaged your gutters.

2. Check Your Gutters

Gutter Clean-up is always important to check between changing seasons. Many people don’t climb up their roof in the Winter (we don’t blame you), but as soon it’s safe we encourage you to take a look.

Correction. We encourage you to have someone take a look, such as a roofing contractor. Many will do free inspections so why not have them come and look.

3. Check for Mold

This is especially true if you think an ice dam formed during the Winter. Water can easily rest in your roof over the Winter months and not be fully realized until Spring.

The best way to check for mold? There’s the obvious musty smell, but sometimes, it’s less obvious.

For a roof, the mold creeps in through the sheathing and can sometimes sit in your insulation in the attic. Again, this is a situation where a roofer can come take a look.

Additionally, there are mold detection kits you can purchase.

4. Check For Missing Shingles, Damaged Flashing, etc.

You would think a single missing shingle doesn’t pose a threat, however, it is a moisture entry point into your home. This is why it’s important to observe from the ground if you can see any missing shingles.

Not only that, if you find a shingle in your yard that is another good indicator.

Flashing (seal around openings such as vents and chimneys) should be checked for damage. Flashing is fairly inexpensive to replace and easy to detect if there is damage.

And of course, with drones now widely available you can always steer one to peek up on your roof.

Summary

Roof Spring cleaning is meant to ready and prolong the life of your roof throughout the Spring and Summer. A little care goes a long way.

If you have more questions about caring for your roof or would like a FREE inspection, give us a call at (402) 889-3381.