Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes longer days, blooming flowers, and a list of chores to complete around the house. As you go about dusting and sweeping the remnants of winter away, don’t forget to check out your roof! Winter can be particularly harsh on your roof, and it’s important to make sure your roof gets adequate attention this spring to ensure it’s in tip-top shape. Learn all about how to check up on your roof with the roofing experts from Shanco below!
Inspect Your Roof For Any Obvious Damage
By far the most important element of your roof is the shingles, and they’re a great indicator of your roof’s overall health. So pay attention to them! There are a variety of different things to look for regarding shingles that can indicate a damaged or failing roof. Just be sure to complete your examination from the ground, as getting on your roof can be dangerous, particularly after a cold winter.
Missing Shingles
Missing shingles is the first thing to look for when inspecting your roof. While not uncommon, a missing shingle is a weak spot in your roof and can cause more damage if ignored. It lets moisture enter the structure of the roof, allowing mold and mildew to grow.
Blistering Shingles
A blistered shingle occurs when too much moisture gets trapped in a shingle, and the exterior begins to swell. This blistering area can eventually burst, causing even more damage if not addressed. Unfortunately, blistering shingles are particularly difficult to spot without proper equipment, so it’s in your best interest to have Shanco complete a professional roof inspection to identify any issues.
Curling Shingles
Curling shingles are another roofing problem that can get worse over time. Typically the result of poor installation or substandard ventilation, they are recognized by clear curling around the edges of the shingles and should be fixed once identified.
Buckling Shingles
Buckling shingles are a cause for concern, and should be investigated as soon as possible. Buckling in your shingles indicates a compromised roof leading to a moisture problem, and a damaged internal structure. If you see any potential buckling or uneven areas in your roof, you should seek professional help immediately.
Sagging, Soft Spots, or Discoloration
Sagging, soft spots and discoloration are all indications of a larger problem with the internal structure of your roof. Any staining or discoloration may mean that you’re having issues with your ventilation, and sagging could mean that there is rotting in the frame.
Look For Moisture and Mold
Mold, mildew, and excess moisture can be particularly troublesome, and it’s key to deal with it the instant you find it. As mold and mildew grow in your roof, they can get under the shingles and into the internal structure of your roof, eventually compromising the entire thing. Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to deal with it if caught soon enough. At-home remedies include lead control strips or zinc to remove the mildew. If you notice that there’s a large area of mold, it’s key to contact a professional roofing company like Shanco to deal with it before it gets any worse.
Trim Back Any Overhanging Branches
Large trees on your property may look beautiful, but a heavy storm can make them dangerous. Branches cause millions of damage to homes in the United States every year, and it’s important to ensure your trees are properly taken care of before the spring thunderstorms hit.
Check Inside Your Attic
An often-overlooked element of roof health is your attic. While it may be difficult to spot damage from the outside, the underside of your roof provides a unique opportunity to spot leaks, mold, or moisture before they become serious problems. If you don’t see anything but it smells musty, don’t ignore it! This may indicate a problem you can’t see. A professional should be contacted to conduct a more thorough inspection.
Shanco Roofing Inspections & Repair Services
If you’re unsure if there’s an issue with your roof this spring, don’t wait for it to get worse! Contact the experts at Shanco Roofing to conduct a free roof inspection this season. We have been providing home improvement, roofing inspections, and repair services to Maryland, Washington, DC, & Virginia for over 20 years, and can make sure your roof is healthy after a cold winter. Contact us today to learn more!
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