Spring Into Action With These Roof Maintenance Tips

If the frigid winter temperatures here in Northern Virginia have left you feeling bogged down, remember that spring is only a few months away. You’ll soon enjoy milder weather and the fresh scent of flowers in bloom, and you won’t have to worry about breaking your back shoveling snow.

Don’t forget that warmer days bring with them a new set of responsibilities for home maintenance, particularly in regards to your roof. There are a few things you’ll want to watch for as the snow melts and the spring weather sets in. Let’s take a look at some roof maintenance tasks you can accomplish to stay “on top” of things.

Clean Gutters

Your gutters are a crucial part of your home’s infrastructure. When properly maintained, they keep water out of your home, greatly reducing the likelihood of mold growth and framing damage. Gutters also keep water away from your home’s foundation, safely diverting it to storm drains.

In order to keep your gutters operating smoothly, check in every few months to make sure they’re free of any obstructions. It’s especially important to ensure their proper function during springtime, when rain and wind will put them to the test. To keep your gutters clean, you can remove small debris like twigs, leaves, and dirt.

Start by safely using a ladder. Make sure to wear gloves or carry a small shovel to assist with trash removal. Try to avoid using bare hands.

Whatever you do, don’t climb on the roof! This greatly increases the risk of falling off and causing severe injury.

While inspecting your gutters, check to see if Jack Frost has left his mark. Oftentimes ice dams can form during the winter months, warping gutters and your roofing system. If your gutters seem bent, misshapen, or damaged in any way, call a professional to have them replaced.

Check for Roof Damage

Ice dams aren’t the only gift possibly left over from the winter. If snow spent any extended time on your roof, it’s possible that there may be damage to your shingles, sheathing, or roof framing. To evaluate this, get a ladder and conduct a visual inspection of the top of your roof. Again, utilize proper ladder safety and avoid climbing onto the roof. If you spot broken or missing shingles, water stains, crumbling masonry, or damaged fascia, it’s time to call a roofing contractor.

You can also conduct a visual inspection of the inside of your roof to ensure your framing and insulation are intact. If you notice any sagging beams or missing insulation, call your roofer — it’s time for repairs.

Need Further Guidance or Replacement Work? Give Us a Call

If you need assistance for a spring-time roof evaluation, or you have determined that it’s time for your roof replaced, contact us here at Sunshine Contracting today for a free consultation and estimate.

We’re a family-owned Northern Virginia home improvement company in business for over twenty years. We’ve been recognized by the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, and Qualified Remodeler magazine for our excellent work and dedication to customer satisfaction.