Winter Roof Care Tips

Dealing with Heavy Snowfall

In most cases, there is no need to remove snow from a roof. But after an abnormally heavy snowfall, especially a heavy snowfall followed by rain, it would be wise to remove excess snow to prevent roof damage and, in extreme cases, roof collapse.

 

For sloped roofs:

Homeowners with sloped roofs can use a ladder and a specially designed roof rake to remove excess snow from the roof. Do not strike the roof with the rake or attempt to remove all of the snow from the roof’s surface. Striking the roof or attempting to scrape all of the snow off the roof could damage the shingles.

 

For flat roofs:

Before removing snow from a commercial, flat roof building, it is a good idea to consult a professional roofing contractor. Most flat roofs are designed to carry heavy snow, but if the snow load is more than the building was designed to carry, hire a professional to make sure the snow is removed without damaging the roofing material and property or endangering lives.

Roof Care During Freezing Temperatures

 

During periods of freezing temperature, check your roof for frozen ice dams. Ice dams are caused by melting snow that refreezes as it works its way down the roof, trapping other water runoff behind its frozen wall and forcing up into the roof. Trapped water on a roof is never a good thing for a roof. It can lead to moisture damage and shorten a roof’s lifespan.

Contact us if you need help with winter roof maintenance, including snow removal and ice dam prevention.

Spring Roof Care Tips

Time for an Inspection

During the spring, conduct a bi-annual roof inspection. Ensure you are comfortable with heights before conducting a roof inspection. Otherwise, call a professional roofing contractor to schedule an inspection.

 

Inspecting sloped roofs:

•   Check for dark stains that may signify algae and fungus growth
•   Clean clogged gutters
•   Remove debris
•   Repair any damage to flashing

 

Inspecting flat roofs:

•   Check for cracks in roofing felt
•   Check for any spongy spots that may signify a water leak
•   Check condition of supports of air conditioners and other mechanical equipment secured to roof
•   Repair any flashing damage

 

Don’t forget to check inside the building as well. Look for brown spots or rings on the ceiling or water stains on the wall. These signs might signify a roof leak.

Inspect the Roof for Wind Damage

Windstorms can seriously undermine a roof’s integrity. After strong winds, check the roof for missing or curled shingles and replace any damaged shingles. While inspecting the roof for damage, remove any debris that the wind may have placed onto the roof.

Spot Checks

Check tar and gravel roofs for any surface bare spots. Cover exposed tar and gravel with pea gravel. Also check for any blisters or spongy spots on the roof that might signify a need for professional roof repair or replacement.

Summer Roof Care Tips

Clean Out Your Gutters

 

The warm weather makes this an ideal time of the year to clean out gutter debris. Practice caution when walking on the roof and follow manufacturer’s instructions when using a ladder to reach gutters. Use a shop vac or your hands to remove debris from the gutters.

While cleaning out the gutters, check for an accumulation of asphalt shingle granules. Granule accumulation in the gutters could signal it is time to replace the roof.

Remove Moss and Algae from Your Roof

 

Remove moss and algae from roof to prevent moisture damage and rot. Brush down the roof, using a scrub brush attached to a telescopic pole to detach the moss and algae from the roof. Use caution when moving on the roof; moss and algae can make the roof extremely slippery.