Once the winter snow starts melting and temperatures rise, it is a great idea to begin some spring cleaning on your roof. This will extend the life of your roof and make sure it stays looking great. If possible, make an appointment with a contractor to have your roof inspected after your initial cleaning. Below is a list ofthings to look out for while you begin to clean your roof:
Tree Limbs
�Make sure that you do not have any tree limbs in contact with your roof,� said Dan Michura of Tree Squad, a Minneapolis tree removal service.�If you do, when the tree sways with the wind, it can loosen shingles and scrape off the protective granules on the surface. Trim any low hanging branches to ensure the longevity of your roof.�
Pine Needles and Leaf
If you live in a wooded area, there is no way to completely remove all of the leaves and needles from your roof. The main concern is any large piles that may have accumulated throughout the year. Big leaf or needle piles trap moisture and the long-term exposure can cause mildew to form on your roof. The additional weight of the wet leaves may strain the roof and could block gutters. Use a rake or leaf blower to remove large deposits of leaves or needles. Just be careful about the shingles while you do so.
Moss
Another issue created by low hanging branches is moss. Leaves from the branches can create areas of shade on your roof where moisture accumulates, encouraging moss growth. By trimming back leaves and branches, more sunlight reaches your roof, causing excess water to evaporate faster. Copper or zinc strips can also be nailed to the roof near the edges to prevent moss growth naturally. Herbicide can be use to reduce moss, but the run off may harm your other plants.
Mold
If you begin to notice discolored streaks on your roof, it could be the result of fungus, mold, or algae. These organisms will begin to degrade your roofing material and weaken the structure, eventually causing leaks. The best way to get rid of mold is by using a specialized spray. Do not try power washing the roof. This can dislodge shingles and cause other damage.
Gutters
�Before the spring rain begins, make sure to remove any excess debris that may have accumulated in your gutters over the winter,� said Dean Bjorkstrand, owner of Landscape Design Minneapolis.�Check to be sure there are no obstructions and also make sure that your gutters are still securely attached to the roof.�
Inspect Shingles and Chimney
After cleaning, look for any missing shingles, damage to your chimney or evidence of flashing near the vents or chimney. If you spot any of these things, it is best to call a contractor for the best advice on repair.