SUMMER MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR ROOFS, GUTTERS AND SIDING

Summer is here, and the flowers, trees and gardens are in full bloom.  Make it a point to inspect your roof to make sure that there are no tree branches hovering over your roof.  You should inspect your roof every few weeks, particularly after heavy summer downpours.

Here’s what you need to know:  If tree branches are hovering over your roof, you should have them pruned back away from your home to protect not only your roof, but your siding and gutters as well.

Here’s why:  Tree branches can rip apart your roof, siding and gutters.  Tree branches and leaves hold moisture against siding and trim causing them to rot.  Additionally, tree branches over your roof provide a ladder for squirrels and raccoons to have easy access to your home.

Water from rainfalls needs to be able to drain adequately so that your roof is not saturated.  Have your gutters checked periodically to make sure there are no leaks or debris left over from the winter.  Your gutters need to be able to handle water effectively to avoid backups that can cause leaks.

With temperatures climbing, it is a good time to have your ventilation system evaluated to make sure it is adequate.  You want to make sure that air can flow freely and that there is no blockage preventing air to escape.

Your roof is the umbrella that protects your house from the roughest of winters through the hottest of summers.  All these components act together to protect your roof from premature aging of the shingles, moisture leaking into the siding, and free flowing gutters.