The roof of a home protects everything underneath, from the ceiling and floor to your foundation and family. Regular roof maintenance will help you safeguard the home and limit the damaging effects of leaks. In spring, before the summer thunderstorms strike, review the condition of your roof with a roofing contractor and fix any problems. Below is more information about how to proceed with springtime maintenance.

A Spring Roof Maintenance Checklist

1. Assess Winter Roof Damage

Before the rain arrives, use a pair of binoculars to inspect the roof from the ground. Look for loose shingles, bald patches, rusty fittings, clogs in gutters, and collections of debris.

Afterward, walk the perimeter of your home for evidence of excessive rooftop runoff. You may see asphalt granules from shingles and dirt and mud on the foundation. Then, head to the attic to check for water stains. Lastly, call a roofing contractor to fix any problems you find.

2. Schedule an Inspection

Working at elevated heights is dangerous, so rely on a roofing expert to examine your roof up close. They’ll know what to look for and can repair any damage from snow and ice while on-site. They’ll clear away any debris to prevent it from trapping moisture against the surface, repaint metal elements, ensure proper ventilation, and replace shingles and flashing.

3. Trim Trees & Shrubs

When they grow too close to your home or overhang your roof, trees and shrubs create zones of dampness and shade where rot will develop. Their branches may also scratch exterior surfaces and puncture the roof. Don’t let your plants impair the roof. Trim dead and dying limbs, eliminate any disease, and reduce their size if trees are outgrowing the space.

4. Discuss a Maintenance Plan

To keep your home and family safe throughout the year, you should receive maintenance checks in spring and fall. You’ll prolong the life of your roof, as well as protect the home’s exterior, interior, insulation, and electrical systems from water. Ask a roofing contractor about the preventative maintenance plans they offer.

If your roof needs replacement or repair, contact Chandler Roofing & Construction in Red Wing, MN, for a free estimate on their roofing services. For over 50 years, their experienced roofing contractors have been evaluation the condition of residential roofs and presenting sensible options to address storm damage and maintenance issues. Visit them online to learn more about their roofing and exterior services, or call (651) 388-9415 to speak with a residential roofing specialist.