Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Roof

Spring has sprung! While we’re glad to see the warm, balmy weather, the season’s arrival also means that there’s a lot of work to be done. Now is the time when rooftops need some “spring cleaning”, and we roofers are about to be very, very busy.

To ensure your home’s roof is in top shape, we recommend taking action ASAP. Just work through this checklist and you’ll be able to take care of all of your roof maintenance before any summer storms head our way.

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Check for Storm Damage

It’s safe to say this past storm season was a doozy. Those extreme elements will have taken their toll on rooftops throughout the state, even in areas that avoided the worst of it. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to examine your roof for any damage that may have resulted from the rain, wind, and flying debris, such as:

• Holes or perforations
• Missing shingles/tiles/panels
• Ripped up flashing, vents, or other accessories
• Worn-away shingle granules
• Loosened gutters

Should you notice any of these problems, they’ll need to be addressed quickly. Putting off repairs can leave you scrambling to get them done before the next storm season comes around, which will be much more stressful, and costly too. Contractors will be busy assisting other homeowners who also waited until the last minute, making it harder for you to get an appointment and a low price.

If you want to make sure your storm damage assessment is performed by an experienced eye, you should get in touch with a professional roofer now. They will be able to conduct an expert inspection and schedule you for repairs ASAP.

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Replace Degraded Flashing

Flashing (the metal trim around your chimney and vent pipes) doesn’t need storm damage in order to fail. The material is prone to break down over time, even in mild climates. While flashing can be expected to last 30 years on average, the South Florida elements may shorten that lifespan.

This is why it’s essential to closely inspect your flashing during your spring cleaning. If it is rusting through, you’ll need to replace it before a leak can develop.

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Trim Hovering Branches

Branches are a big threat to rooftops, especially when they’ve been neglected. Every spring should bring about routine inspection of nearby trees, looking for any branches that could pose a threat once the wind and rain hit.

It’s best to be conservative in this evaluation: if it looks like there’s even a chance of the branch falling on or scraping your roof, you’ll be safest just removing it. Trim with future growth in mind too. While a branch may not be too obtrusive yet, it could easily grow too long or heavy within just a few months in this fertile climate. A professional tree trimmer will be able to help you make this assessment more effectively, and safely reach branches that you would not be able to on your own.

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Treat for Algae, Moss, Mold, and Mildew

Here in humid South Florida, we’re in a constant battle against all types of green goo: algae, moss, mold, and mildew. Rooftops are especially prone to develop this crud, since the moisture can seep in between shingles and other layers of the roof envelope.

Luckily, regular treatments can keep the gunk at bay, and they aren’t hard to make. All it takes is a 50/50 mix of bleach (or chlorine) and water, which can be sprayed evenly over the roof surface. A roofing professional can help administer this treatment as well, often more effectively than a DIY approach.

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Clear & Repair Gutters

Even if your gutters managed to avoid being mangled by storms, they may still have succumbed to general wear. It’s not uncommon for old gutters to rust out, creating leaks that usually spring in the most inconvenient places (like right above your front door!).

So while you perform your spring gutter cleaning, be careful to check for any spots where your gutters may be wearing thin, or their brackets may be loosening. If it’s been 20 years since they were installed and they aren’t made from a top-of-the-line material, then you may need to plan for a gutter replacement.

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Check Your Attic for Signs of Roof Problems

It’s not just the exterior of your roof that is likely to need some TLC. Your attic ceiling serves as the innermost layer of your roofing system, and if any problems develop here, you could be looking at some serious rehab. Making a spring attic checkup part of your yearly routine will help you catch issues early and save your wallet from expensive and extensive repairs.

When you enter your attic, look for any of the following symptoms of a leak or insufficient ventilation:

• Excess humidity or condensation
• Water stains or mold on the ceiling, walls, or floor
• Damp or moldy insulation
• The odor of mold or mildew
• Drafts or hot spots

Finding any of these issues in your attic means that you need the help of a professional. Contact a roofing contractor right away so that they can address them safely and quickly.

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Summary: Your Spring Roofing Checklist

• Check for Storm Damage
• Replace Degraded Flashing
• Trim Hovering Branches
• Treat for Algae, Mold, and Mildew
• Clear & Repair Gutters
• Check Your Attic for Signs of Roof Problems

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Get Professional Help with Your Spring Roofing Refresh

Making time to do all of these tasks yourself can be hard, and unless you’re particularly knowledgeable about roofing, it may not be practical either. Calling in a professional to perform the necessary inspections and repairs will give you peace of mind that all issues are caught and resolved appropriately, leaving your roof 100% ready to take on the rest of the year’s weather.

At AKVM, we provide comprehensive roofing services for homes and businesses throughout Sarasota, Manatee & Hillsborough Counties. We rank as one of South Florida’s most trusted contractors, delivering quality service protected by top tier warranties.

Our team of specialists is ready to help you tackle your spring cleaning checklist - contact us today to schedule your FREE inspection and estimate.