Top 4 Spring Roof Issues To Watch Out For

Speak to people around the country, and spring means something very different than it does here in Sarasota. After all, we are not watching the snow thaw off of our roof, or hoping for that first warm day.

Sarasota winters are dry, seasonable, and relatively peaceful as far as weather is concerned.

However, with that being said, we do have our own challenges as we enter the Florida spring season when it comes to roofing and home maintenance.

As our days move from balmy to hot, here are the top 4 spring roof issues which Sarasota homeowners face.

Spring Roof Issues

Clogged Gutters: No rain during the winter months means that lots of debris can build up in your gutters. From leaves to twigs and dirt, the buildup results in blockages which can wreak havoc on your gutters. Not only can gutters become heavy and begin to sag and pull on your roofing structure – and that situation will get much worse when the rain begins to fall – but the backed up water can cause leaks in areas it would normally bypass.
Cleaning out your gutters is an easy way to ensure that water flows away from your roof as intended.

Here’s a Tip: You can generally spot severely clogged gutters from the ground. However, to truly make sure that your gutters are free and clear, simply climb a ladder – no roof climbing necessary.
Undiscovered Leaks: Florida winters tend to be very dry, and so any breaches, cracks, or holes in your roofing materials can go undiscovered for months. Once the heavy rains return in the spring however, these problems can become evident very quickly.
The deterioration of the roofing material can be caused by mold, animals, harsh sun, or flying debris – but you are not likely to notice unless you do an inspection, or until the water intrudes into your home.

Here’s a Tip: Run a garden hose over your roof in sections to see if water is leaking into your home. Be sure to check the attic to see if there are any signs of water damage, stains, or damp wood.
Loose Tiles or Shingles: Our dry winters can cause sealants to dry out and become cracked. This may result in some tiles or shingles becoming dislodged or displaced. Dust and dirt can also accumulate under loose tiles, further aggravating the tight seal.
Here’s a Tip: If you are unsure as to the best adhesive to secure your tiles, call a professional. Simply nailing the shingle down may not solve your problem, as water can still leak through small breaches in the sealant.
Animals Living on the Roof: From a bird’s nest to a raccoon lodge, animals seem to be attracted to our roofs, eaves, gutters and soffits when it comes time to build their spring home. While not often thought of, this can be one of the most problematic spring roof issues to deal with.
Unlike a tree limb or loose tile, an animal can dig, burrow and damage your home’s structure very quickly. They can set up shop in your gutters or exploit a weak area in the wood frame.

Springtime is when they build their nests, so it is prime time to look out for the little critters.

Here’s a Tip: Cover gutters and any open areas with chicken wire. It will still allow water and air to flow as designed, but will keep the animals from being able to access the area for their nests.

All of these spring roof issues can be taken care of with one solution – a roof inspection. Here in Sarasota, we can easily inspect your roof in the winter time – in fact, it is preferable to do so, before the heavy rains of spring begin. A roof inspection can identify weak areas and spot deficiencies.

A professional roofing company will be able to make recommendations as to how to best make small repairs, clean things up, and prepare your roof for the harsh Sarasota months to come – when blazing sunlight and torrential rainstorms will punish your roof.

Ready to get started? Call Avery Roof Services today!