Finally the snow is starting to melt. The cold temperatures and winter precipitation are giving way to the sounds of spring. Now is the time that homeowners should start to reach out to contractors to help them get ready for spring time maintenance. Roofing contractors are especially busy with roof inspections and spring cleaning.
Yep, even your roof needs attention after a long winter. This is especially true in areas where fall leaves fell late and the snow covered piles of rotting leaves. Underneath this mess is for sure to be the start of moss and algae growth. Spring cleaning and maintenance will ensure your roof is in top condition and left looking brand new. Here are some tips to take into account when it comes to spring maintenance for your roof.
When you live in an area where tree growth is heavy it is crucial that all the tree limbs that are close to the roof are cut back. This helps allow the sun to shine on the roof to help dry out left over moisture and prevents tree limbs from rubbing over the shingles and loosening the protective granules.
When leaves and one needles fall and are left to collect on your shingles they will hold in moisture causing mildew to build up, gutters to become blocked and extra weight on the roof. A low intensity leaf blower should be used to clear the roof. Never use a high powered blower or rake to clear the roof as this can cause damage to the shingle roof.
Although trimming back trees and clearing leaves will help reduce moss growth on your roof it can still form in pockets that do not have enough access to sunlight. Moss thrives on moisture and therefore unless the roof can thoroughly dry it will continue to grow and thrive. One way to rid your roof of moss is to use a chemical solution that is available on the market today although the chemicals can cause damage to plants and other landscaping in the area. Another solution is to install a zinc or copper strip to the ridge line of the roof. As rain washes across the area it will help to create an environment where moss can no longer grow.
Mold is another issue that needs to be addressed in the spring when maintaining your roof. Mold, algae and fungi all eat away at your roofing which eventually will cause a leak in the roofs foundation. In order to treat your shingles roofing contractors suggest a solution of chlorine bleach or copper sulfate be sprayed on the area. Never power wash a roof to get rid of mold or growths as this can dislodge the granules on the asphalt shingles and cause failure to the roof.
A final step in spring roofing maintenance has to do with your gutters. Leftover fall leaves and debris can fall into the homes gutters and cause them to clog. This can cause damage along the roof line. Before the springtime rain comes clear the debris from the gutters and ensure that water can flow through without any issue. Fix loose nails that prevent the gutters from sitting flush along the roof line.
Handling potential issues with your roof during spring maintenance prevents serious problems later on down the road.
Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.