Now that Spring has Sprung, it’s time to Take a Look at the Roof

It’s finally the season when everything springs into action again — including you. Now’s the time to roll up your sleeves and take care of the things you’ve neglected during the winter months. You’ll want to make sure your home is ready for April showers and the impending summer weather.

For example, take a look at your roof.  Even if your roof didn’t take a beating from snowy conditions, spring is still a great time to give it a once over. Safety first: If you’re using a ladder, make sure it’s stable before you attempt to climb. Look for missing or damaged shingles and signs of leaking or cracking. Contact a professional in case of any issues.

You may also consider removing stains on your roof during spring. If you notice any dark streaks, algae are the likely culprit. The only harm in that case is cosmetic. If you notice moss, on the other hand, you should definitely clean it. Moss can cause asphalt shingles to lift, curl or blow off in high winds. To clean algae or moss, apply a solution of equal parts bleach and water. After about 15 minutes, rinse it off. Don’t pressure wash or scrub as you might damage the shingles.

And while you’re up there, might as well Spring Clean all debris and leaves out of the downspouts and gutters. Reattach the gutters if they are sagging or consider replacing them if they are beyond repair. Notice any holes? Prevent leaks by caulking them. Keep in mind that downspouts should face away from your home to improve drainage.

—
Photo Credit: Karynf / Shutterstock.com