Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist: What to Check After Winter
Winter’s been tough on your roof - snow, ice, rain, and all those freezing temperatures! But now that spring is here, it's the perfect time to show your roof a little TLC so it's ready for sunnier days ahead. Here’s your spring roof checklist to make sure your roof’s in tip-top shape:
1. Check for Loose or Missing Shingles
Winter weather loves to mess with shingles - shifting them, loosening them, or sometimes even making them disappear! Take a walk around your property and spot any shingles that may have gone rogue. Missing or damaged shingles are a big no-no, especially with spring rains around the corner. The sooner you fix it, the better!
2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Let’s be real: gutters are a magnet for leaves, branches, and debris during winter. If they’re clogged, when those spring showers come pouring down, they’ll get backed up - and that’s a recipe for disaster. So grab that ladder, clear out the mess, and make sure the downspouts are flowing freely!
3. Look for Moss or Algae Growth
Even in the winter, moss and algae will grow - even thrive - on your roof in the snow. Check especially in shady spots where snow or moisture tends to stick around. Moss traps this moisture, which can rot your shingles over time. Keep an eye out and have it removed before it causes more damage.
4. Check For Ice Dams
Ah, New England winters. We all know they come with heavy snow, ice, and dangerous Nor'easters. Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the edges of your roof, blocking water from draining. This causes water to back up under shingles and form leaks. Now that things are warming up, make sure those ice dams are long gone, and check for any damage they might’ve caused.
5. For Coastal Areas - Check for Wind & Salt Damage
If you live along Connecticut’s beautiful coastline, you know the winds can be fierce, and salt air can take a toll. Those strong gusts can loosen shingles, and salt can corrode metal parts like gutters, flashing, and vents. Regularly rinse off your roof and siding to remove salt buildup and keep everything looking fresh!
6. Inspect for Water Stains in the Attic
Spring’s a great time to head up to the attic and look for any sneaky leaks. Keep an eye out for water stains, mold, or mildew. If you spot anything fishy, it could mean a bigger issue like damaged flashing or missing shingles. Don’t wait - get it checked!
7. Look for Sagging or Drooping Areas
Winter snow and ice can weigh your roof down, causing some areas to sag or droop. If you notice any spots looking a little too low, it could be a sign of structural damage or water buildup, and it's important to contact a roofing expert before it gets any worse.
8. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Everything may look good from the ground, but there could be hidden problems up top! A professional roofing inspection can catch things you might miss. Regular inspections can extend your roof’s life and help avoid pricey repairs down the road.
Taking a little time for a spring roof check can save you money and prevent bigger headaches later. Keep your roof in check, and it’ll keep your home safe and looking great all year long!
If you notice anything that’s got you scratching your head, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Brown Roofing. One of our friendly professionals will be more than happy to meet with you, perform a full roof inspection, and help address all of your concerns. Contact us for a consultation today, and remember - Brown Won't Let You Down!
