roofing questions answered

The spring and summer months are common times of year for roofing repairs. Heavy spring rains, for example, can make even small roof leaks very obvious and problematic. Severe summer storms and high winds can also result in unexpected roofing problems. Fortunately, there are a few steps all homeowners can take before the hotter months of the year hit to better prepare their roofs and homes for summer.

Schedule a Roofing Inspection

Start by scheduling a comprehensive roofing inspection, if you haven't done so already. An annual roof inspection is the best way to stay on top of any changes to your roof's health and structural integrity. Plus, if there are any small problems with your roof that may have developed over the fall and winter months, you can get these taken care of before they turn into more serious (and costly) problems this summer.

Have Your Gutters Cleaned Out

Your home's gutter system plays an important role in protecting your roof from leaks and other types of damage, so be sure to show it some love as well. Ideally, you should have your gutters cleaned out once or twice a year, so the spring is a good time to have this done. Clearing out leaves and other debris from your gutters will allow them to carry water away from your root and home effectively this summer and beyond.

Clear Off Branches and Debris

If you can safely do so, visually inspect your roof for debris (such as large branches) and remove it yourself, if this is not already included as part of your annual roof inspection. Standing debris on your roof may not seem like a huge deal, but it can cause damage to shingles, flashing, and other important roofing components over time, so it's better to be safe than sorry here.

Revisit Your Home Insurance Policy

Finally, make sure you're aware of your current home insurance policy and the specific coverage provided for roofing repairs caused by summer storms. Hopefully, you won't need to file a repair claim--but if you do, it's a good idea to know your policy inside and out so you can have that added protection and peace of mind.

Dealing with unexpected roofing repairs is a nightmare for any homeowner, but by following these steps as the summer months approach, you can prepare your home's roof for the demanding months of summer and avoid potentially costly repairs!