It’s time! Spring cleaning season is upon us, and Sarasota homeowners are scrubbing, straightening, and decluttering their homes to be ready for a fun-filled summer.

This is also the perfect time for a little roof spring cleaning – which will prepare your roof for the long sunny days, heavy rains, and severe weather which our summers bring.  Here are a few easy steps to making sure your roof is in tip-top shape for the coming months.

Reasons for Roof Spring Cleaning

• Clear Off the Debris: Once the rain comes, all the debris on your roof will begin to wash into your gutters. When your gutters are clogged, the water cannot flow freely and begins to back up, pool, and even run into areas it should not. In fact, clogged gutters are one of the major causes of roof leaks, foundation damage, and eroded flower beds.

  Avoid clogged gutters by removing all dirt, leaves, and sticks which may have landed on your roof over the last few months.

• Trim Back Tree Limbs: Not only will overhanging tree branches become a future source of debris, but they can scratch and rub against your roof as well. Local roofing companies see much of the storm roof damage as a result of these branches interacting with – and eroding or damaging – roof shingles and tiles. They can also create shady areas on your roof which are most conducive to mold and algae growth.

  From granular loss and cracked tiles to mold buildup, tree limbs can wreak havoc on your roof – making them a prime target of your roof spring cleaning.

• Replace Cracked or Damaged Tiles: It may seem like just a small section of roof, but those cracked clay tiles (or curling asphalt shingles) may be indicative of a greater problem. Water intrusion can occur given the smallest of openings, and once it gains access water can run anywhere in your home. Eroding tiles and shingles should be replaced, mold and algae cleaned from under the materials, and adhesives checked and reinforced.

  After all, Sarasota summer storms are going to dump a lot of water on your home, so it is important to remove any possible vulnerabilities.

  Tip: This is a great time to check your gutters for granular loss, which is a sure sign that your shingles are eroding and may need replacing.

• Check for Leaks Before the Rain: It can be difficult to ascertain if your roof has sustained any damage which may result in a roof leak – at least until that first big storm. To try to avoid future damage, look in your attic for any signs of past water damage or intrusion, no matter how small.

  Check your insulation to see if it appears matted down, check ceilings and walls for water marks, and inspect the exterior of your home for any signs of water running down the outside walls.

  If you see any possible signs of water being present in the past, run a garden hose over your roof section by section. Have a friend or family member report if they see any signs of water intrusion.

  You can then identify the leak and take care of it before rain is a daily occurrence.

If you didn’t inspect your roof last fall, call Avery Roof Services today to schedule a “roof spring cleaning” inspection.

Our expert Sarasota roofers will not only ensure that your roof is summer-ready, but that you have the knowledge and recommendations you need to guarantee that your roof is healthy for many more years. Have questions regarding the maintenance of your roof? We are happy to help.