“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” This simple quote could be useful in almost every area of our lives. Preparing a menu today for tomorrow’s dinner will be appreciated when you get home after work. Going for a walk or getting some exercise today, could extend your life when you are older. There are so many instances of not procrastinating and getting things done while there is time.
The same goes for roof maintenance. Cleaning and preparing in springtime will be appreciated when strong summer storms arrive. What are some roof maintenance tips to have on your list?
Clean the Gutters
Harsh summer weather can create damage to the gutter system. The buildup of debris can cause the gutters to pull away from the roof, become weak at the fasteners and joints, and even break away from the building. Make sure to clean them out and have them prepared to expel the water from the summer thunderstorms. Here are some things to clean out of the gutters and keep them working at top performance:
- Twigs
- Leaves
- Dirt
- Excess shingle granule
- Insects
- Nests
Clean off the Roof
Cleaning a roof from mold, mildew, algae, and moss is key to keeping the shingles lasting for years. Moss, for example, can cause water blockage and buildup. The moss will retain water much like a sponge. This is horrible for your shingles! The excess moss and water can seep under the shingles, causing them to raise, buckle, bend, and break.
These damaging fungi will need to be removed and remedied as soon as they are noticed. Secondly, it is wise to learn how they came to be. Whatever may be causing the mold, mildew, algae, and moss must be eliminated or it will be a constant battle against nature.
Trim Back Limbs
The shade from trees is excellent and can be a wonderful shade during the heat of summer. However, if the limbs and branches extend over the home, a fierce storm and mighty winds can cause them to break and land on your home causing damage to the surface. If you have concerns about trimming back trees, be sure to speak with a professional tree trimmer. They understand safety procedures and how to carefully trim trees so as not to destroy or kill the tree.
Have an Inspection Done
This is a wise line item for your list of things to do. An inspection from a reputable company will be able to determine if there are areas of concern or weaknesses needing to be addressed. A roofer in Palm Coast can determine if shingles need to be replaced, metal fasteners are beginning to rust, or any other issues which need attention. Have those areas corrected as soon as possible before the summer arrives to ensure protection for your home and family.
Clean and Declutter the Attic
We usually don’t think about how the interior of our home can impact the exterior. But, in this case, air flow in the attic can help the roof function better. If there is proper ventilation and insulation, then the monthly energy bills can be diminished. If there is a great deal of clutter from floor to ceiling, blocking the ventilation, and airflow, then the HVAC system may need to work harder to keep the roof cool. Plus, by decluttering, and donating items to a second-hand store, perhaps someone can get some use out of the items, rather than collecting dust in the attic.
Use the time this spring to prepare your home and roof for summer. Repairs on your roof can be easily mended and the extra time can be used to enjoy the local sights and sounds of Palm Coast. Trust the professionals at Elo Roofing in Palm Coast to assist with any questions or concerns you may have about your roof. We are here to help and bring peace of mind when it comes to your roofing system.
