Roof Maintenance 101: Roof Spring Cleaning Checklist

As the weather warms up, spring cleaning and yard work tend to take priority. Your roof is one of the most frequently overlooked elements of your home’s exterior maintenance. For that reason, it’s often helpful to have a roof spring cleaning checklist.

Make sure to give your roof the care it needs as it makes its way through spring rain and wind. Our team of experts has put together a list of four spring roof maintenance tips.

Roof Spring Cleaning Checklist

1. Take Care of Your Gutters

Debris accumulates in gutters and drains throughout the winter months. If leaves, twigs, or shingle granules have clogged your gutter, it won’t be able to accomplish its job effectively. Clean it so it works properly during the next spring downpour.

Use a gutter scoop to thoroughly clear out your gutters so that you don’t damage them. You can keep the debris off your landscaping by laying a tarp on the lawn below.

2. Examine Your Shingles

Look for any missing, curled, or worn-down shingles. If you don’t feel confident climbing onto your roof, you can perform a partial visual check from the ground. Use a sturdy ladder and bring a friend to hold it if you are confident enough to check your roof.

Look for cracked, twisted, or missing nails in the shingles. Roof repairs or replacements may be necessary for spring, especially if you see big sections of damaged shingles.

3. Check for Mold

Mold and algae growth are not uncommon on roofs in the winter due to moisture accumulation. When inspecting your shingles, keep an eye out for mold and algae. You can treat mold on your roof yourself, but you should consult a professional roofer before pouring anything up there.

4. Document the Damage and Schedule an Inspection

Notice missing or broken shingles, mold development, or any other roof-related issues during roof spring cleaning? If so, take photos and document the issues. Your homeowner’s insurance likely covers roofing damage following a storm. However, you must first give proof of the damage’s scope. Schedule a professional roof inspection if you see something unusual on top of your roof (or even if you don’t).