Springtime storms can be good for flowers and vegetable gardens, but they can also result in extensive damage to your roof. As a homeowner, you should invest in simple solutions to keep high winds and heavy rains from wreaking havoc on your roofing system. These three strategies will help you prepare your roof for inclement weather and decrease the likelihood of storm damage repairs in the near future.

3 Tips to Save Your Roof From Springtime Storm Damage

1. Find & Replace Missing Shingles

On a clear day, scan your roof to scan for missing shingles. If you notice bare spots or detect shingle damage, call a roofing contractor to replace them. Repairing and replacing shingles early on is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix. However, if you leave the problem unaddressed, you will leave the roof’s underlayment vulnerable to the elements. Even one problematic shingle can result in widespread shingle damage in the event of a large storm; it may even contribute to serious roofing leaks.  

2. Trim Surrounding Trees

When high winds blow through your landscape, you should expect twigs and bigger branches to break free. In many cases, you shouldn’t have to worry about this debris; however, if any of your trees are close to your home, they could pose a risk to your roof and your home in general. Heavy branches may scrape the roof, causing damage to shingles. In more severe cases, the entire tree may fall and create a hole that requires a full roof replacement.

To avoid these dangers, it’s best to trim your trees in the spring. If it’s too difficult or unsafe for you to tend to your trees, hire an arborist who has the experience and resources to complete the job.

3. Clear Gutters

Over the course of the winter, it’s likely that leaves, twigs, and other types of plant matter cluttered your gutter drains. In addition to welcoming pests and contributing to mold and algal growth, this debris can clog up the drainage system and prevent rainwater from flowing away properly. If you encounter a heavy storm, excessive rain may cause the gutters to overflow and cause water damage to the roofing, siding, and foundation of your home.

To make sure your gutters will provide reliable drainage, clear out all matter from the drains. Next, spray a hose into the system and make sure the water flows away properly.

 

 

Whether you need to replace missing shingles or repair roofing leaks, Marshall’s Contracting in Clarksville, MD, has the resources necessary to restore your home’s integrity. In addition to preventive services, this team can also deliver comprehensive storm damage repairs—including complete roof replacements. To learn more about these services, visit this Howard County roofer online. For free estimates and appointment requests, call (410) 406-7667.