Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements. Maintaining it properly can help you avoid costly repairs down the line -as long as you know what you’re doing and when to call for help. If you’ve ever wanted to maintain your roof without getting overwhelmed, this is the place to start.
Spring Roof Maintenance
Spring is the perfect time for a post-winter roof check. Homeowners should visually inspect the roof from the ground to spot
- Missing shingles
- Sagging or damaged gutters
- Debris build-up
- Algae and moss stains
- Rusted flashings.
Spring roof maintenance is also a perfect time to schedule a professional inspection to assess any hidden or not easily visible damage from winter storms, like missing nails, washed-off granules and other signs of damage that are hard to see.
In the meantime, clean gutters and downpipes to ensure water can drain freely.
Summer Roof Maintenance
The focus for summer roof maintenance should be on ventilation and keeping the roof clear of moss and algae. Trim back overhanging tree branches that could drop debris or rub against shingles. Ensure attic spaces are well-ventilated to prevent heat build-up, which can prematurely age your roofing materials.
Autumn Roof Maintenance
Autumn home maintenance is all about preparation for the coming winter. Clear leaves and twigs from the roof and gutters at least once during the season and more frequently if you have a lot of trees on your property. Inspect flashing and sealants around vents and chimneys to make sure they’re intact before winter arrives.
Autumn is also the best time to schedule any necessary repairs and maintenance before wet or freezing conditions set in.
Winter Roof Maintenance
If autumn roof maintenance has been taken care of, there should be minimal roof maintenance to take care of during winter. In icy or snowy regions watch for ice dams forming along the eaves. Ensure your attic insulation is sufficient to prevent heat loss, which can contribute to ice damming.
No matter the winter home maintenance task, avoid any attempts to climb on the roof in icy or snowy conditions.
Maintenance You Can DIY
Homeowners can usually handle the most basic roof maintenance tasks, including:
- Inspecting roofs from the ground (like looking for sagging gutters or valleys in the roof and missing or damaged shingles)
- Cleaning gutters and downpipes
- Trimming nearby tree branches to prevent fallen limbs or animals from landing on your roof
- Monitoring the attic for signs of leaks or moisture.
