Summer is slowly coming to an end and soon temperatures will dip below 100 degrees. In preparation for cooler days, you might want to start thinking about the maintenance you want to complete on your home. One key system to examine and clean up is your roofing system.
Fall is one of the best times to do roofing maintenance. Why?
Temperatures tend to be comfortable in the fall to complete tasks that you might put off all summer. Additionally, here in Arizona, fall comes right after monsoon season which can cause damage to your roof and a mess to clean up. To help you keep your roof in top shape, we’ve put together a few of our greatest fall roof maintenance tips.
6 Fall Maintenance Tips
1. Clean Your Gutters & Downspouts
No one particularly enjoys this task, but it is essential to ensure your roof stays healthy year round. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts at least 2-3 times a year will help keep water from penetrating the roofing system.
Throughout the year, rain and wind will stir up debris that can easily get stuck in your gutters and downspouts. If left untouched, they can be clogged and cause water to back up into your roofing system. Ensuring your gutters and downspouts are clear can help keep the structural integrity of your roof in-tact.
2. Look for Streaking
Steaks on your roof can be a sign of mold growth or fungus issue. With the amount of rain the East Valley has seen this year, mold growth can be common with the amount of sunshine we receive and especially if you have a large tree in your yard. A simple cleaning will remove the residue and leave your roof in good shape. If you choose to leave the mold or mildew to grow, it could end up costing you significantly, maybe even a new roof.
3. Examine Your Roofing Material
Throughout the year, your roofing material takes a beating from moisture, sunshine, and everything in between. Fall is a great time to examine your roofing materials for damage. Start with the actual material, whether you have tile, shingles, or metal. If there are any missing, cracked, dented, or dimpled, you will want to replace them right away. Leaving them in place is like using a broken dish in the cupboard and putting it out when company comes over.
Other pieces of your roof to examine includes the fascia and soffit. If these parts are damaged, gutters can fall off, critters can find their way inside, and your attic ventilation can be affected. Additionally, check your flashing. Areas where two walls intersect should have a piece of thin metal to keep water off of your roof. If it is cracked or missing, you will want it replaced right away to prevent a leak from forming.
4. Look for Critters or Insect Infestation
Nothing can be more detrimental to a roofing system than a critter living inside or a termite infestation. Animals and insects use roofing systems to find shelter from the heat, sunshine, monsoon rains, and wind. While examining your roof, look for areas that are rotten, sawdust piled up, or waste. These are all signs that you might have a problem and it is better to be safe than sorry.
5. Check The Attic Space
Many homeowners do not understand that their attic is an important part of their roofing system. While examining your roof, you should also examine the attic for damage. Things that should be alarming include spots of daylight, mold growth, water stains, or rot. These are all signs that you could have an issue with your roof and should call your trusted roofing contractor.
6. Seek A Professional Examination
Roofing companies frequently offer preventative maintenance care packages that include a professional exam of the roofing system. Again, having a professional examine your roof after the monsoon season is a great idea. They will also know exactly what to look for and what to do if damage is found.
While many homeowners do not find it necessary, it is money well spent to have preventative maintenance done. This could end up saving you thousands later down the road.
If you are located in the East Valley and in need of a professional roofer, contact Craven Construction today. We offer preventative maintenance, roofing repair, and full replacement if you need. Our team is skilled and professionally trained to best care for your roof. We are also fully insured and licensed for an added peace of mind. Call our office to schedule your FREE estimate today!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.