As the days grow cooler in Wisconsin, it’s time to prepare your home’s roof for the fall and winter. Shingle roof maintenance which includes inspecting the roof and repairing any damage ensures your roof is ready to withstand whatever the colder months bring.
These five steps make it easy to get your roof in tip-top condition.
Shingle Roof Maintenance Tips for Your Wisconsin Home
Routine maintenance on your shingle roof helps prevent costly roof damage.
- Clean the Roof
If your roof has noticeable black stains or dark streaks, it’s likely due to algae forming during the more humid months. Overhanging tree branches and fallen leaves can also cause stains, as can pollutants, dust, and other airborne particles that settle on the roof. Have your roofing contractor remove any leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris from the roof and then thoroughly inspect it for any issues. Eliminating roof debris ensures water flows freely from the roof and doesn’t promote algae growth.
- Inspect the Shingles
Weather, age, and heating and cooling cycles can cause significant wear and tear on shingles. Look for signs like discoloration, missing shingle granules, exposed nails, shingles that have slipped out of place, and warped, curled, or cracked shingles. While small areas of damage can usually be repaired, extensive damage might require a roof replacement.
- Check for Flashing Damage
Flashing acts as a barrier to prevent water leakage, directing water away from certain areas of the roof that are prone to leaks. Check for cracked or loose flashing around chimneys, dormers, roof and pipe vents, and other roof penetration areas. Repair or seal the flashing to prevent leaks during the fall and winter.
- Check for Leaks
Inspect the attic, ceilings, and walls inside your home for stains or discolorations. Check the attic for signs of water infiltration and around light fixtures and electrical outlets for signs of water leakage. Outside the home, make sure gutters and downspouts are free of clogs and directing water away from your home’s foundation.
- Clean the Gutters
When gutters back up, the water they spill out soaks your roof and siding and saturates the ground near your home’s foundation. Regularly cleaning the gutters of leaves and other debris ensures water flows away from your home as it should.
Schedule Shingle Roof Maintenance Today
Need assistance in getting your Wisconsin home’s roof ready for the fall and winter months? Call the team at First Quality Roofing today. We offer shingle roof maintenance, repair, and replacement services that are second to none. Our 14-point roof inspection spots minor issues before they become expensive problems and ensures your roof’s in optimal condition to face the winter elements.
With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, we tailor our shingle roof maintenance services to meet your home’s unique needs, providing you the peace of mind of knowing your roof is sturdy and secure.Contact us online or call 715-350-2162 to schedule shingle roof maintenance or to learn more about our services.