The long winter is finally over, and that means your roof and rain gutters are finally clear of snow and ice. With the weather warming up, now is the perfect time for some spring cleaning. Your to-do list every spring should include a careful inspection of your roof and gutters, as well as a thorough cleaning. If you don’t prepare your roof and gutters for spring, you may run into unexpected issues once the rainy weather arrives.
Here is a checklist to guide your roof and gutter inspection and cleaning this spring:
Start With Gutters and Downspouts
Over the course of the end of autumn and the entirety of winter, debris and dirt has accumulated in your rain gutters. In order to channel rainwater safely away from your home this spring, you’re going to need to clear them out and make sure there are not any leaks or blockages. Using a ladder and a pair of gloves, grab and pull out all of the debris that has found its way into your gutters. Bring a bucket up with you if you want to save yourself some time cleaning up debris later on.
Some homeowners will use a broom or hand shovel to dig out the debris, but try not to do that. Your rain gutters are strong, but you still want to be delicate with them so you don’t break them.
After you’ve cleared away your rain gutters, take a look at your downspouts. Critters to build up little nests in your downspouts during the winter, so you’ll want to make sure those are cleaned out as well. Once you’ve removed all the debris from your gutters and downspouts, run a hose up your ladder and rinse out your system. While water is being channelled through your gutters and spouts, keep an eye out for leaks. If you notice water is dripping or spilling from certain potions, get the leaks fixed up right away.
Clean and Inspect Your Roof’s Exterior
Once you’re done with your gutters and downspouts, you’ll want to clear off any debris that is on your roof. While you’re up there scraping debris off, have a good long inspection at the surface of your roof. If your roof isn’t too steep and you feel safe, climb atop your roof to conduct a thorough inspection.
You want to be looking for any damage that your roof might have experienced during the winter. Your shingles are the most likely to have been damaged. Make sure that there are not any missing shingles and take note of any damaged or worn shingles. It’s better to make quick fixes to a shingle here or there than deal with the serious, and expensive, consequences down the line.
Other things on your roof to keep an eye out for include:
- Loose or exposed nails
- Missing or worn caulk
- Exposed rusted metal
- Areas that are sagging or depressed
- Cracks in the chimney
- Rot, mold, or algae
Interior of Your Roof
Once you’ve examined the exterior of your roof to ensure the snow and cold of winter didn’t inflict damage, it’s time to head inside and make sure the interior of your roof is on the up-and-up. Walk throughout the upstairs of your home check the ceiling for evidence of water accumulation or leaking. Cracks are another thing to watch out for, as they can deteriorate over time and cause issues. If you have an accessible attic, turn your attention there next.
The inspection of your attic needs to be as thorough as possible. Your attic provides you with the most intimate look at how the interior of your roof is holding up. Both your eyes and your nose are tools when inspecting your attic, as both mold and mildew will usually announce their appearance beneath your roof with their foul and recognizable smell.
If your attic passes the smell test, take a peek in around for any evidence of moisture or dripping. Is there any darkened or discolored wood in your attic? If so, water is finding its way past your roof. Any moisture-related issues in your attic need to be dealt with as soon as possible. Water and moisture are the primary threat for your roof, as if your roof is letting water through, flooding and water damage could be on the horizon.
Also be on the lookout for evidence of pests and rodents. These little creatures have a talent for finding their way into your attic to post up shop during the cold winter. Look for remains or urine stains. If you find some, contact an pest control service or set up some traps if you believe you can handle it personally.
Roof and Gutter Cleaning from Gutter Maids
Need some professional assistance for your gutter and roof cleaning this spring? We’re here to help. If you have a high-up roof that is requires a lofty ladder to access, don’t strain yourself or put yourself in danger climbing up there. Instead give Gutter Maids a call. Let our experienced team of professionals get your roof and gutters in shape for spring.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.