Now that the winter is over, it’s finally time to enjoy some sunshine, but also to check if there are any underlying winter damages on your property.

As the roof is the most important and the most exposed part of your home, roof inspection should be on the top of your priority list. 

There are several types of issues that you may be faced with, so follow this guide and get your roof ready for the rest of the season!

This article is presented to you by Weatherlock Roofing Contractor, roofing contractor Jacksonville FL.

Check and Clean the Gutters

During winter, debris tends to accumulate in your gutters and downspouts, and spring is the perfect time to deal with it.

In addition to that, cold temperatures, snow, and ice may have damaged your gutters in some way, so it is important to conduct the necessary repairs and keep them in top shape.

Therefore, the first thing to do is to remove any twigs, branches, leaves, and dirt that has built up in the gutters. This way, you will get rid of any clogs and make sure that the water flows freely off of your roof. 

After that, check to see if any part of the gutter system is detached from the property or if there are any cracks. If you notice any signs of damages, it is best to call a professional to repair it.

Look for Missing or Damaged Shingles 

You can look for missing and damaged shingles from the ground, without the risk of climbing on top of the roof. Alternatively, you can climb a ladder for a better view, but make sure you are always safe, that the surfaces are not wet, and that there is someone holding the ladder for you.

Usually, missing shingles will be the easiest to spot and sometimes, you may even find blown off shingles on the ground around your property.

When it comes to damaged shingles, you may notice curling, buckling, discolorations, cracks, surface grain loss, and similar. These are all signs that your roof needs professional attention, and depending on the extent of the damage, you will probably need either a roof repair or a replacement. 

Inspect the Flashing 

Flashing is usually located around chimneys, skylights, valleys, vents, and any other roof penetrations or areas where two parts of the roof meet. It is installed in the form of metal strips and it prevents water from seeping into the roof’s structure or inside your home.

Therefore, make sure all the flashing is firmly attached to the roof and that there are no cracks and gaps.   

If you find any issues or suspicious areas, call your roofer and they will determine the extent of the damages. 

Check the Roof’s Surface for Mold and Algae 

During winter, your roof is usually exposed to a lot of moisture, whether from the snow, the rain or the ice melting, which is the perfect breeding ground for algae and mold.

So, while you are checking your shingles, make sure to look for mold, moss, and algae growth on the roof. They will usually present themselves in different colors, such as green or white spots, black streaks, or green-blue spots.

Homeowners may be able to clean some of these issues on their own, but it is always best to consult with or employ the help of a professional roofer. 

Look for Signs of Interior Water Damage

The interior of your home may also point to some serious damages on your roof. Some of the most common issues that homeowners are faced with after winter are leaks.

Leaks will often present themselves in the form of stains on your walls, ceilings, as well as paint peeling and blisters on the walls. You may notice the same stains in your attic, along with mold growth.  

These are all signs that your roof may be leaking and that you should call your roofer as soon as possible to mitigate and deal with the damages.

Enlist the Help of a Professional Roofer

Once you have done everything you can when it comes to roof inspection and maintenance, don’t hesitate to leave all the rest in the hands of experienced roof repair professionals from Weatherlock Roofing Contractor.

If you have noticed any damages or if you are not sure whether your roof is functioning properly, call your best local roofer for a professional roof inspection.

They will be able to detect even the smallest issues and recommend the best further course of action.