Here are some things you can do on your own as part of your spring cleaning chores:
1. Cut back trees. You want to make sure there are no tree branches overhanging your roof. Overhanging branches will result in extra leaves or pine needles on the roof. Not to mention if the branches were to break off, they could cause damages to your roof.
2. Check the roof for pine needles and leaves. A stray leaf or a few pine needles will not hurt your roof. However, if you notice there are leaves or pine needles accumulating in valleys and ridges on the roof, these need to be removed.
They will trap moisture in and can lead to problems with mold, mildew and moss problems. Plus, if the water is sitting on top of the shingles, eventually, it can work its way underneath and could potentially become a roof leak.
- Spring Cleaning Tip: DO NOT use a power washer on your roofing shingles. The power washer can damage the shingles by removing the granules. To remove leaves, pine needles and other items, you can use a leaf blower.
3. Inspect and clean your gutters and eaves. Make sure your eaves and gutters are securely attached to the home and have not come loose. You will want to clean out and remove any pine needles or leaves. In addition, look for damages from heavy snowfalls and ice and have these repaired.
4. Check the roof for mold, moss, and mildew. All of these things can grow in dark, damp, and moist areas on the roof that does not get direct sunlight. If you had leaves and pine needles that needed removed, make sure to treat the area they were with an appropriate product to kill the mold, moss, or mildew. If the problem is more widespread, then it is time to call in a professional roofer for assistance.
5. Visually inspect the flashing and shingles. The flashing is the part around roof vents and the chimney and should be intact. You also want to check to make sure there are no shingles missing from the roof.
6. Inspect your attic for signs of water leaks and damage. Access your attic and look for water stains on the underside of the roof. Water stains will appear as brown-coloured spots. You will also want to look for signs of mold and mildew as these indicate a moisture problem, which could mean a leak.
If you want help inspecting your roof or attic, or need repairs, or increase your attic or basement insulation, please feel free to contact Logik Roofing at (905) 424-7469 today! We are part of the Green Ontario program and offer rebates that will practically pay for attic insulation and basement insulation.
