SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST FOR YOUR ROOF
May 3, 2018
As professional roofing contractors in Eugene, Oregon, the Oregon Roof Guys want to make sure you’re maintaining a healthy roof. Spring is a perfect time to inspect your roof for damage and normal wear and tear. If you find any damage during your roof inspection, give us a call and we’ll schedule an appointment to come take a look. Read on to learn about some items to add to your spring cleaning checklist for your roof.
CLEAN AND INSPECT GUTTERS
Clean gutters are important for a healthy roof. Adding a gutter and downspout cleaning to your spring cleaning checklist will ensure water flows off your roof properly and prevents water damage to your home. While cleaning your gutters, make note of any granules that have collected in your gutters and check to see where they are coming from. You may need to replace roofing shingles that have been worn down from losing their asphalt coating over time.
REMOVE AND PREVENT MOSS
Moss holds in moisture, lifts shingles, stains your roof, and can cause serious water damage if left unmanaged. You can remove the bulk of the moss by hand scrubbing and by using a garden hose. If you notice a large build-up of moss or algae during your inspection or don’t feel comfortable working on your roof, contact a roofing contractor that specializes in moss removal and prevention. Having zinc strips installed on your roof is also a great way to prevent future moss growth.
REPLACE MISSING OR BROKEN SHINGLES
Check for any buckling, curling, blistering, and missing shingles. Single shingles can be replaced fairly easily but if it’s more than a couple of rogue shingles that are showing signs of damage then it’s probably a good time to get a consultation with a roofing contractor.
CHECK NEARBY TREES
Overhanging branches can damage your roof shingles and trees that too close to your house risk falling and damaging, not only your roof but your entire home. Springtime is a good time to trim back any overhanging branches and check to make sure all the nearby trees are in good health and not at risk of falling. Maintaining nearby trees will also mean less debris in your gutters.
CHECK YOUR ATTIC
Another item to add to your spring cleaning checklist is making sure your attic is dry and that there are not any cracks of light coming through the roof. Scan the walls and rafters and check for signs of a leaking roof such as moisture, water stains, mold, and mildew.
CHECK ALL THE FLASHING
Flashing is found around chimneys, along the joints of your roof, and surrounding any attic vents and skylights. Flashing that has been separated will need to be resealed with caulking and flashing that is beginning to rust or deteriorate should be replaced. Typically they are made of galvanized steel, which shouldn’t corrode, but it’s wise to check for rust just in case.
INSPECT YOUR CHIMNEY
While inspecting your roof it’s also a great time to simultaneously inspect your chimney. Besides the flashing, check the chimney crown, the bricks and mortar joints, and the flue liner for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you need any help with your chimney, contact our sister company the Oregon Chimney Guys!
Whether it’s a roof repair or roof replacement, contact the Oregon Roof Guys to schedule an appointment today.