From high-speed winds to heavy rain and snowfall, your roof is exposed to treacherous weather throughout winter. This means you might need a roofing contractor to repair the damage once temperatures rise. To ensure the membrane can keep seasonal showers and pests emerging from hibernation out of the house, below are three maintenance tips to consider as spring arrives.

How to Care for Your Roofing System After Winter 

1. Trim Back Trees

In early spring, before leaves start to bloom, cut back tree branches hanging over the roof. Without the thick canopy, it will be easier for landscapers to spot potential problems, like dead or rotting limbs. They will trim back or remove splintered, weak, and diseased limbs that are at high risk of falling and puncturing the membrane. 

2. Have Gutters Cleaned

Soaked leaves, mud, animal nests, and twigs often collect in gutters during winter. As layers of grime can clog the channels, they won’t be able to direct rain away from the roof in spring. To prevent issues related to standing water, have the gutters cleaned. A professional can also check for cracks, loose connections, and other problems caused by the strain of holding heavy snow and ice. 

3. Schedule a Professional Inspection 

At the start of spring, have a roofing contractor take a look at the membrane. They will check for missing shingles, corroded flashing, rotting soffit and fascia boards, mold growth, and punctures. These problems could have been caused by melting snow, ice dams, and falling debris. A roofing contractor will repair any damage to restore the efficiency and integrity of the system. 

Some signs of damage can be subtle, which is why you should contact the roofing contractors at Shrum Roofing & Construction for a thorough inspection. Based in Waterloo, IL, and serving clients in Monroe County, St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding areas, their team specializes in roof repair and installation for flat, slate, rubber, clay, and metal roofing systems. To schedule a free estimate and hear about the discounts for seniors and military personnel, call (618) 977-3425. Learn about their stock of roofing materials online and read favorable reviews on their Facebook page.