Summer days are just around the corner in the Treasure Valley, which means now is the perfect time to start tackling home improvement projects. This includes giving your roof a thorough inspection. Why? Idaho gets its fair share of harsh weather, which can wreak havoc on the roof of your home. Even worse, damage can go undetected unless you take the time to look for it. That’s why the Boise roofing professionals at Madison Roofing would like to provide you with the following inspection tips to help you know what you should be looking for.
Inspect & Clean Your Gutters
If you put off cleaning your gutters in the fall, there will be plenty of leaves and debris in your gutters and downspouts. Even if you did clean your gutters, you should always check them each spring to make sure they can handle the spring and summer months ahead.
Clean Out Debris
With a small spade, scoop out leaves and debris from within your gutters and toss them in a bucket. Don’t forget to look inside each downspout and remove any built-up debris hidden there too.
Inspect for Issues
When you’re cleaning your gutters, take the time to look for any signs of damage or deterioration. These include any cracks, holes, deteriorating seals, and sagging areas.
Flush Your Gutters
Once you’ve cleaned them out, flush each gutter and downspout with water from a garden hose. If you notice any water backing up, you’ve probably got a clog somewhere. Once you find the clog, it’s usually pretty easy to flush out with a sprayer attachment.
Check for Leaks
When you’re flushing your gutters, look for any leaks. Leaks usually occur near joints and seams, so you’ll want to keep a close eye on these areas.
Adjust Downspouts
When you’re looking for any leaks, watch where the water flows out of your downspouts. If it’s pooling near your foundation, it’s important to reposition them, so that the water disperses at least four feet from your home.
Additionally, if you notice any damage or deterioration to your gutters and downspouts, it’s essential to have them repaired as soon as possible. Why? Maintaining a functional gutter system is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to protect your roof from water damage.
Inspect Your Roof for Leaks
If you have an older roof, winter storms can really do a number on it. If you notice large hanging icicles or full-blown ice dams, your roof may have developed serious water damage. However, it’s important to note that this type of damage occurs slowly. That’s why it’s essential to inspect your roof every spring for winter damage.
Inspect Your Attic
Signs of water damage in your attic include stains, mold, mildew, or dark spots on the sheathing and rafters. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any signs of lingering moisture on all surfaces too.
Inspect Your Insulation
Water-damaged insulation includes any dampness, mold, or mildew. Typically water-damaged insulation is the easiest to detect.
Examine the Shingles of Your Roof
Inspect your roof for any lifted, cracked, curled, or missing shingles. Granule loss and damaged flashing are also signs your roof may be in trouble.
If you notice any signs of water damage, mold, or deterioration in your attic or on your roof, the chances are high that you have a leak. That’s why it’s essential to schedule a professional inspection by the Boise roofing professionals at Madison Roofing to prevent further water damage and get necessary repairs made before summer storms hit.
Schedule A Professional Inspection
Regardless of the type of damage, you may find, it’s essential to schedule a professional inspection by a licensed roofing contractor. Any surface damage will need to be repaired right away to protect your home and loved ones. Furthermore, if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, you may want to consider having it replaced. During a professional inspection, the Boise roofing professionals at Madison Roofing will let you know whether repairs or replacement is the most cost-effective option.
Madison Roofing
Whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, get in touch with the team at Madison Roofing. We specialize in residential and commercial roofing systems and have been putting our customers first for over 45+ years in the Treasure Valley. Fill out our online form or give us a call at (208) 344-5379 to get a free quote today.
