We’re nearing the end of summer, and now is a great time to make sure your roof is protected against the colder seasons to come. While we may see summer as blues skies and sunshine, the extreme weather conditions like heat, humidity and thunderstorms can leave your roof susceptible to significant wear and tear. It’s important you work with a professional like Reader Roofing to pinpoint any problems you may have. Here are some end-of-summer maintenance tips for your roof.

Clean out the gutters

To reduce the risk of clogging and structural damage, your gutters should be cleaned twice a year. Clear away any debris that can cause water to pool and soak into the nearby roofing materials. When all debris has been cleared, use a hose to make sure that the water flows through the gutters, down the downspouts, and away from the home. Having a professional clean your gutters ensures that the bolts, brackets, and seams are also properly inspected.

Replace missing shingles

The high winds and hot weather we experience in the summer can take a toll on your roofing materials. As the temperatures rise, materials expand. This can cause shingles to become displaced, cracked and brittle. Have your house checked to see if any shingles are missing or damaged. If ignored, the gaps in your shingles can cause water to leak into your home.

Trim surrounding trees

Having large trees during the summer can be a lifesaver when it comes to providing shade and lowering cooling costs. However, those overhanging branches can destroy a perfectly functional roofing system when they grow too close to your home. Trees can scrape your roof, puncture shingles and contribute to gutter clogging. The weight of heavy snowfall in the winter can cause branches to break and collapse on the roof. Make sure your roof is protected by adding tree trimming to your routine maintenance.

Inspect insulation & ventilation

Insulation is important to keep a moderate climate within your home year-round. Make sure your home has the right amount of insulation and that the summer humidity has not caused any damage to it. You should also have your attic inspected to determine if the ventilation is properly regulating temperatures and preventing moisture retention. Doing this now can save you from dealing with bigger issues in the winter like ice dams and mold.

Contact Reader Roofing for Maintenance

Proper maintenance can help you prolong the lifespan of your roof and face the challenges that each season brings. Are you looking to get an end-of-summer checkup? Reader Roofing has over 100 years of experience inspecting and maintaining both residential and commercial roofs. Give us a call at (216) 451-1355 to schedule an appointment.