How To Maintain Your Roof This Summer

Summer may seem to be the least important season for roof maintenance. It’s likely you don’t think much about your roof when the weather is warm and the sun is shining. Wind, rain, hail, and snow are what get your attention when it comes to your roof. Yet, summer is really the best time of year to address your roof and get it ready for what the change of seasons may bring. Here are some ways to address the needs and maintain your roof this summer.

Clean Your Gutters

You might want to start with removing debris from your gutters and downspouts. If you are unable to do this yourself, you can Learn More about companies that can help with doing this so it is not neglected. Doing so will ensure that water being shed by the roof will flow freely and be diverted away from the house and foundation. Gutters that are clogged with sediment, leaves, pine needles, and tree nuts will impede that flow. Consequently, water can collect and run down the side of your home. Water damage is difficult to remedy, so it’s best to prevent it in the first place by keeping your gutters functional. Gutter cleaning is recommended a couple of times a year, once at the beginning of summer, and then again in late fall after the leaves have dropped.

Trim Back Tree Branches

It can’t be expressed enough how important it is to trim back tree branches that overhang a roof, especially if the limbs are dead. Periodic strong winds that can drop branches are not uncommon in the Midwest. As well, the weight of snow and ice can cause tree limbs to break and drop. These branches can cause extra damage to your roof. And of course, as previously mentioned, tree leaves can clog your gutters. It’s best to keep your tree branches away from the roof if possible.

Inspect the Roof Inside and Outside

Periodic inspection of your roof and attic space is encouraged. The best and easiest time of year to do this is in the summer when the weather is cooperating. You can check for leaks, water damage, and deteriorated insulation in the attic yourself. Additionally, you can make sure vents are properly screened and cleared of any debris blocking airflow. A licensed and insured roofing contractor can inspect asphalt, wood, and slate shingles that appear to be lifting or even missing. They can also check for deteriorated flashing at roof penetrations, valleys, and eaves to let you know if there are signs that replacing the roof is needed.

Clean the Roof

You might be wondering why you would want to clean a roof when it would appear that rainwater would do just that. A good soaking rain might wash away surface dirt, but it can also encourage the growth of moss and mold on north-facing surfaces that don’t receive adequate sunlight. You can have your roof power washed to remove unwanted growth and debris that has settled in valleys. Just be careful with abrasive methods if your roof is old or delicate.

Make Repairs

The best thing you can do in summer is to make the basic Roof repair in Boise to prepare your roof for the harsh Idaho winter and to extend the life of the roof to avoid full replacement. Once defects and leaks have been identified, it is prudent to call in a professional to discuss and address all your residential roofing repair solutions.

If you decide to handle the repairs yourself, be sure to get all the supplies you need before beginning the job. You will want to rent equipment that you do not own. It would not be logical to purchase equipment for one-time use unless you will use it for another project. Be sure to include a stair ladder platform to prevent any fall risks that come with standard ladders.

You really want to make any repairs or roof replacements before the weather turns. Fortunately, with shingle-style roofing, repairs are typically fairly quick and easy to complete.

Conclusion

Summer is the best time of year to inspect and maintain your roof. This can significantly prolong the life of the roof and give you peace of mind going into the colder months. As always, it is a good decision to hire a professional roofing contractor that is fully insured and licensed to perform any work that is required.

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