The Ultimate Roof Maintenance Checklist

Your roof protects you day after day, year after year. Rain, snow, ice, high winds, and the harsh sun will wear out most roofs over time. It makes sense to take steps to prolong the life of your roof with timely maintenance. Perform the following tasks from season to season for the ultimate roof maintenance checklist.

Spring roof maintenance

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your roof. Spring is an excellent time to call professionals like the ones at Triple Peaks Roofing for a thorough inspection. They will perform a 40-point inspection to check for missing or torn shingles and the overall condition of your roof.

Throughout the season, visually inspect your roof for damage from spring storms by climbing a ladder if you can do so safely. If not, use a good pair of binoculars from the ground. Inspect shingles for damage and look for dings on vents and flashing.

Check your gutter system and clean out spring debris from budding trees and twigs. Gutters that stay clogged will cause water to back up and damage your roof.

Summer roof maintenance

Summer brings rain, humidity, and the harsh UV rays of the sun. The conditions are right for moss and algae growth, especially for north-facing roofs and those in wet climates. Neither is healthy for your roof.

If left unchecked, algae can cause shingles to decay and lead to roof rot. Light moss can cause shingles to crack, cup, or curl. Heavy moss absorbs water which can build up underneath shingles and damage the roof deck. You may be tempted to use a pressure cleaner to remove moss and algae. This can strip the granules from asphalt tiles. Instead, rinse the areas on the roof gently with a mild solution of bleach and water.

There isn't much you can do about the harsh summer sun, but the gritty granules on shingles offer some protection. By keeping your roof healthy all year, you can prolong its life from the baking sun.

Fall roof maintenance

Fall brings falling leaves and debris. Clean your gutters again and make sure they are free from leaves and twigs. To get ready for the snow, ice, and winter winds, inspect the trees on your property for dead or diseased branches. Have them removed to avoid falling branches pounding your roof.

Trim any low-hanging branches that dangle over the roof. They can also damage your roof and give easy access to pests that may be looking to hole up underneath your roof for winter.

Inspect the sealants around flashing, chimneys, and vents for deterioration and replace them with fresh sealant. Make sure your attic is adequately insulated. Heat loss from the attic can be the source of winter ice dam formation.

Winter roof maintenance

December to February are the hardest on roofs for most areas. If you get heavy snow, using a roof rake may allow you to remove most of it from the ground if you have a single-story home. If needed, use a secured ladder and get someone to hold it steady. After each snow, ice storm, or heavy winter rain, check your attic and ceilings for leaks.

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