Start your annual roof cleaning ritual by inspecting the roof shingles.
This can be done by a homeowner standing on the ground, or up on the roof if done safely. This simple task should be a routine part of your annual home maintenance and roof cleaning ritual, especially in the fall and spring (before and after the harsh New England winters).
Look for shingles that are:
- Loose
- Cracked
- Missing
- Torn
These will need to be replaced promptly to maintain the integrity of your roof.
Remove debris from gutters and your roof
Clean off your roof and gutters at least once a year. Debris such as leaves, pine needles, branches, and other minor debris can present a drainage problem as they build up. In order to keep water, snow, and melting ice flowing freely down your roof as it was designed, you’ll need to keep it clean.
Check for the best gutter cleaning frequency
Your gutters are actually an integral part of your roofing system. While the gutters capture water and melting snow off of your roof, if they become clogged, this can cause major issues for your home. Water or melted ice (such as with ice dams) can back up and seep into your home.
Inspect the soffit and fascia while you’re doing your roof cleaning ritual.
It’s important to examine where your roof meets the rest of your home. Keeping these structurally sound and watertight help make your roof effective. Check for damage or rot, and replace promptly to keep the entire roofing system sound.
Check the ground near your gutters for any loose granules
Even the highest quality asphalt shingles will suffer from wear and tear over the years. As the shingles begin to degrade, they will shed small granules that will end up in your gutters and flow down to the ground.
This is an easy inspection point and does not require getting up on the roof. If you begin to see loose granules on the ground, or discover them in your gutters, it’s time to get a professional roof inspection to see if some aging shingles should be replaced – or if you are a candidate for a full roof replacement.
Trim back any low hanging tree branches as a part of your roof cleaning ritual
Your roof has been constructed to withstand the harsh rains, winds, and snow. But falling tree branches or branches that brush up against your roof can cause major damage during a storm or over time. Even just the leaves and debris can seriously clog up your gutters.
Once a year, take a look at all the trees that are close to your property. Trim back any branches that are overhanging your roof or could potentially damage your roof in high winds.
Book a professional roof inspection to check flashings and joints
Of course, there is plenty that the average homeowner can observe on their own. But there may be small and subtle issues that are easily overlooked if you don’t know how to find them.
Our crews are trained to check flashings around your chimney, boot pipes, skylights, and other roofing elements. Over time, even the best sealants and flashings can deteriorate through several hot / cold weather cycles.
Have a pressing problem? We offer emergency roof repairs.
Even the most well maintained roof can suffer damages during extreme weather. That’s why Golden Group Roofing keeps a roofing crew on staff all year round. You can call us anytime for emergency roof repair after a big storm or roof leak.
If it’s been a few years since you’ve replaced your roof, schedule a professional roof inspection for peace of mind. We’re happy to help you with your yearly roof cleaning ritual to get a longer roof life. Contact us at (508) 873-1884. We service the Greater Boston, MA area, including Worcester Country, Middlesex County, and Suffolk County.
