The Ultimate Summer Roof Maintenance Checklist
Whether you’re looking to get the most out of your new roofing installation or extending the life of your aging roof, it requires due diligence. As a residential homeowner or commercial property manager, the longevity of your property depends on your commitment to addressing roof repairs at the first sign of an issue, as well as keeping up with seasonal maintenance tasks.
To ensure you leave no stone unturned in your summer maintenance routine, the roofing professionals at Platinum Restoration have prepared this guide to help you get started!
1. Inspect Shingles & Repair Flashing
The scorching heat and severe storms of a Minnesota summer can cause roofing materials to expand and contract. This can result in shingle brittleness, particularly in roofs older than 15 years.
No matter the age of your roof, you should have it professionally inspected on an annual basis. But you can (and should) also do simple inspections yourself weekly or monthly to take note of any glaring issues. From the ground, look for damaged shingles or gaps between the shingles. Examine the flashing around your chimney and vents as well.
In addition, mold and mildew can thrive in the humidity. If you notice black patches on your roof, have them inspected by a professional roofer before it causes more severe damage.
2. Inspect & Clean Gutters
Ensure that your gutters are free of debris and leaves. Seeds can settle in clogged gutters in the spring, spreading throughout the summer. This can be a major issue, making gutter cleaning even more difficult.
To guide the water away from your property, your gutters must be operating at full capacity. You can clean your gutters yourself, but if you cannot climb a ladder, or if you discover more serious damage, you should contact a gutter repair professional to help you with that.
3. Check the Eaves
Examine the underside of your eaves. These are the parts of your roof that hang over the rest of your house. Bugs frequently use this overhang to create their nests or colonies if not closely checked.
Although some nests are safe, hives should always be removed. Because stinging insects like to construct their nests on the undersides of eaves, be vigilant so this does not eat deep into your roof and cause some damage.
4. Trim Encroaching Trees
If you do not trim encroaching trees, summer storms may swiftly bring them down onto the roof. As a result, clearing them out in the summer is a wise idea.
Also, note that not trimming down these encroaching trees could cause gutter damage, as debris gets into gutters and clogs them.
5. Check Roof Insulation & Attic Ventilation
Good attic ventilation is necessary to control the temperature inside your home and prevent humidity that leads to mold and mildew. So, it’s important to ensure your home has enough ventilation and that your insulation hasn’t become damp due to humidity or leaks.
High energy bills, pest infestations, drafts, and leaks are all signs that your home is under-insulated and/or poorly ventilated. Our competent roofers can always measure your home and calculate the proper ventilation required!
Need Professional Roof Maintenance in the Twin Cities Area?
If you are thinking of roof maintenance around the Twin Cities, Platinum Restoration has what it takes to ensure your roof meets – or exceeds – its life expectancy. Our work says a lot about our expertise!
You can count on us for all your exterior restoration needs, including windows, and siding too. Send us a message or call 763-244-1474 today!