The summer season has comfortably settled in, and we know you are excited to dive headfirst into all those summertime activities you’ve been anticipating all year long. But before you jump in the swimming pool or whip out the barbeque, Boss Roofing is here to remind you about another major seasonal task - summer roof inspection. During the boiling summer months, a well-maintained roof can be a game-changer for your home and the comfort of your family. By taking the following fundamental steps to get your roof ready for the season, you can expand its lifespan and boost the overall energy efficiency of your home. So, check out this all-inclusive roofing maintenance list the professional roofers from Boss Roofing created to guide you through the process:

  1. Perform a Roof Inspection

The first step in any essential roof care routine is a complete roof inspection. This will help you identify any pre-existing damage that needs to be focused on before it takes a turn for the worse under the summer heat. Make sure you inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear, like rusting, loose or missing shingles, leaks, or other damage. Checking for loose or missing shingles is a vital part of a detailed approach to roof inspection. The summer sun can cause your shingles to curl and crack, which could possibly result in roof leakage. At the same time, be on the lookout for granules, a clue hinting that your shingles might be near the end of their duration period. Be attentive to the metal parts of your roof - check for signs of rusting that could undermine the roof structure. To get a better view of your roof in summer, consider using a pair of binoculars. You can do a basic inspection on your own; however, if you want to ensure a comprehensive assessment, we recommend using a fully licensed professional service.

  1. Clear Debris

As time passes, debris such as dirt, twigs, and leaves can pile up on your roof, adding weight and causing possible water retention. Chances are this will lead to severe issues like structural damage or leaks, particularly during the summer rainstorms in Rock Falls, Illinois. When clearing debris, ensure you’ve taken all necessary precautions. Use a sturdy ladder to get to your roof. You might be tempted to step on the roof itself for a more thorough cleaning, but we strongly advise against it as it can be dangerous, and you can potentially cause damage to your roof.  Use a blower or long-handled broom to clear off the debris, and keep in mind that this is also a good time to check for moss or algae, which can be detrimental to your roof and shorten its longevity. Be sure to clear any accumulated debris from your roof as a part of your routine maintenance.

  1. Inspect and Clean the Gutters

Your gutters have the leading role in managing rainwater flow and preventing water damage to the structure of your house. But, over time, they can get clogged, decreasing their functionality. Not paying proper attention to your gutters can result in bigger problems in the future. Blocked gutters might cause water to overflow onto your home’s walls, leading to structural damage. Furthermore, stagnant water in gutters can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Make a point to inspect your gutters regularly and get rid of any blockage, twigs, and leaves to ensure water can flow freely. As part of the essential roof care, give your gutters a full cleaning.

  1. Check Ventilation and Insulation

Appropriate roof insulation and ventilation are crucial for maintaining a pleasant indoor temperature during the summer season. Poor ventilation can result in hot air trapped in your attic, considerably increasing the temperature in your house. Did you know a properly ventilated and insulated roof in summer can help reduce your energy bills? An inadequately ventilated attic will trap the heat, putting pressure on your air conditioning system to keep a cool temperature inside your house. Boss Roofing pro tip: Solar attic fans or ridge vents will improve ventilation.  In the same way, a well-insulated attic will help keep the cool air inside your house from escaping through the roof, boosting your home’s energy efficiency. Check your attic today to make sure it’s properly ventilated and insulated.

  1. Routine Maintenance and Repairs

In the long run, performing routine maintenance and repairs on your roof can save you a lot of money. Whether it’s something as simple as a loose shingle or a minor leak, make sure these are fixed before the summer heat hits to avoid further deterioration and probably more expensive repairs in the future. Small issues today can become big problems tomorrow if not dealt with swiftly. For example, a minor leak can cause water to seep into the structure of your house, causing mold and rot as time passes. Essential roof care is vital for preventing these issues. We advise setting up a maintenance calendar to ensure small issues are addressed as they pop up.

The Benefits of Professional Roof Inspection

Although a DIY roof inspection can help spot some issues, some particular damages require a professional eye. At Boss Roofing, we provide expert roof inspections in the area of Rock Fall, IL, that can identify potential problems before they become big headaches.  While DIY inspection and maintenance will keep your roof in good condition, some aspects of essential roof care and repairs are best left to the professionals. Expert roofers at Boss Roofing will help identify issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye. Allow our highly skilled team to ensure your roof is in top condition for this and many more summers.

Wrap-Up

Maintaining your roof in summer is more than just conserving its visual appeal. It’s about ensuring your house remains safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient all the way through the summer season. With our checklist in your hands, you are armed with all the necessary knowledge to give your roof the attention it needs. Stay cool, and have an amazing summer! And keep in mind, for any roofing concerns, big or small, you can always call Boss Roofing - your partner in essential roof care in Rock Falls, IL, and beyond.