Preparing for Spring: Roofing Maintenance Checklist for NJ and PA Homes

With spring on the way, it is important to have your roof inspected after the long winter. Spring brings the hot sun, rain showers and falling branches. This is especially true for houses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where the daily weather is quite variable. With a spring maintenance checklist and the help of a roofing services professional, you can ensure your roof is ready for the upcoming season.

Schedule a Post-Winter Inspection

The first step is hiring an expert for a post-winter roof inspection, especially if you dealt with rain, snow and ice. A professional will look for cracked, curled, buckled or missing shingles and check for damage caused by ice dams. Ice dams are a buildup that prevents melted snow and ice from draining. A professional makes a note of all the damage found during the inspection to you receive the service you need.

Removal of Winter Debris

Winter weather can lead to debris on your roof, such as leaves, twigs and branches. However, a professional will remove it during an inspection to ensure they can fully identify roof damage. Plus, too much debris can put more weight on your roof than necessary, leading to issues like sagging and buckling. Removing the debris also prevents issues with your gutters and downspouts, such as clogs and cracks.

Cleaning and Repairing Gutters

Gutter and downspouts channel water away from your home’s foundation, preventing water damage to your house. Therefore, these elements must be clear of leaves, twigs and other debris. When you schedule your roof inspection, you can rest assured that your gutters and downspouts are part of the routine, including repairs when necessary.

Ensuring Proper Roof Ventilation

Roof vents must be clear of debris and working properly. Good roof ventilation allows moisture to escape, preventing a buildup that causes structural damage and mold growth. If you notice extreme humidity, mold and damage inside your attic, let your roofer know so they can clear and repair the vents as needed.

Check for Signs of Interior Water Damage

If you notice water damage inside the attic or top floor, your roof likely has a leak that requires immediate attention. All your roofer needs to do is take a peek inside your attic, but you should also make a list of any signs you notice before your inspection.

• Small leaks
• Water stains
• Visible mold or mildew
• A musty scent
• Rotted wood

Check for Obvious Holes in the Roof

While a professional can spot holes in the roof during an inspection, you may notice a few beforehand. One of the most obvious signs is sunlight showing through the attic or top floor. Unfortunately, another sign of a hole is pests inside your attic. You need a roof repair or replacement before those minor holes become major problems.

Moss and Algae Removal

Your roofer may point out dark streaks or moss patches, which are a sign of algae growth. Moss and algae are more than an aesthetic concern, as they trap moisture on your roof and cause shingle damage. The good news is that roofers can safely remove these elements with a specialized cleaning solution.

Look for Roof Sagging

When looking at your roof from the attic or ground, check for signs of sagging. A sagging roof dips or bends inward in the middle of the area. The cause may be the weight or impact of debris on the roof from a winter storm. Pooling water is another potential cause of a sagging roof because it leads to a weakened or rotted roof structure. A sagging roof needs repair or replacement before the situation gets worse.

Inspect for Animal and Insect Damage

If your roof has any entry points for animals, they may sneak in during winter to keep warm or hunt for food. Unfortunately, they can block your ventilation and damage roofing materials from nesting or chewing. On top of that, you never want an insect infestation inside your home. Experts can pinpoint signs of pests, such as nests and droppings, and seal the entry points to prevent them from returning.

Look Up From the Ground

While you wait for an expert to arrive for a professional inspection, look at the roof from the ground up. You can use binoculars to get a closer look at your roof, and this is a safer option than climbing on a ladder. You may notice issues such as damaged shingles or moss growth from the ground. Make a list of any damage you find and present it to your roofer once they arrive at your home.

Review Your Roof Warranty and Insurance

Now is a good time to review your roof’s warranty and insurance policy, especially if there is damage. Doing so gives you an idea of what your plans do and do not cover, so you know what you may need to pay out of pocket. You also want to keep records of inspections, repairs and replacements for future reference. Keep in mind that attempting even the smallest DIY roof repair could void the warranty.

Schedule Necessary Roof Repairs

There is always a chance a professional will find damage to your roof during the inspection. Fortunately, they may be able to offer a quote on the spot for necessary repairs. It is important to schedule your roof repairs with Warren Thompson & Son Roofing & Siding in Alpha soon to save money and reduce the risk of serious damage. Plus, spring is a great time to schedule repairs because the weather is nicer, so you do not have to worry about project delays.

Document Noticeable Damage in Advance

If you notice any damage such as holes in the attic, water stains and clogged gutters, document the damage before your scheduled roof inspection. Take pictures of the damage to show your roofer if possible, and keep them for potential insurance claims. It is best to leave everything else, such as climbing on the roof and making repairs, to a professional roofing company.

Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today

When you need to schedule a professional roof inspection, Warren Thompson & Son Roofing & Siding has the experience and tools needed for the job. Our roofers have undergone training to ensure they can handle tasks such as replacing damaged shingles, repairing leaks, storm damage repair, and even a full roof replacement. You can also hire us to clean and repair your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. We have been in business since 1999, and we have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. You can also check out our high ratings and positive reviews from satisfied customers on Google, Angi, Yelp and Facebook.

If you are ready to tackle your spring roof maintenance, contact Warren Thompson & Son Roofing & Siding today. We will send an expert to inspect your roof and take care of any resulting issues that need to be addressed.