Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, but the local Pontiac weather can put it to the test. From the rain and sun to the snow and ice exposure it experiences throughout the year, your roof takes a beating in every season. This eventually adds up, and without proper care, small issues can turn into big, expensive problems.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to help keep your roof working at its best year after year. A little routine maintenance can save you money, protect your home, and give you peace of mind when storms roll through Pontiac. Let’s talk about some DIY roof maintenance steps you can implement for year-round protection!
Clean the Gutters
Gutters keep your roof and foundation safe by directing water off of your home and away from areas where it can cause damage. Throughout the year, though, they can become full of leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris that can cause clogs. This will cause water to spill over the sides of the gutter system and pool around the foundation, or even back up under your shingles and roof deck.
One of the most important steps in DIY roof maintenance is removing debris from the gutters. Not only does this keep water moving away from your home, but it also helps reduce the risk of ice dams forming during Pontiac’s cold winters. Taking the time to clean your gutters regularly can save you from costly repairs and protect your roof’s overall health.
Inspect Your Flashing
Your roof’s flashing is the waterproof layer of material that keeps water out of chimneys, vents, roof valleys, and other potentially vulnerable areas of the roof. During a visual inspection of your flashing, you should look out for cracks, rust, loose sections, or gaps where water could seep in. Even a small separation in flashing can allow moisture to penetrate, leading to leaks and interior water damage.
If you find any signs of damage with your flashing, make note of it. Write down exactly where the damage is, and if possible, take a photo so you can monitor whether the issue worsens over time. While minor wear can sometimes be patched with roofing sealant, more serious damage should be repaired or replaced by a professional to ensure a watertight seal.
Keeping track of these details helps you stay ahead of potential leaks and makes it easier for your roofing contractor to address the problem quickly if professional repairs are needed.
Remove Debris
Just as debris can collect in your gutters, it can also collect on the roof itself. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but as moisture gets caught under the debris, it can slowly wear down your shingles and lead to mold, mildew, or even rot. Over time, this trapped moisture can shorten the lifespan of your roof and create weak spots that make your home more vulnerable to leaks.
Using a broom or leaf blower, try to gently remove any debris that’s stuck on your roof. You should avoid pressure washes or similar harsh tools, as they can strip protective granules from your shingles and cause unnecessary damage. A little bit of routine debris removal can go a long way in keeping your roof looking good and performing at its best.
Inspect Shingle Condition
Most homes in Pontiac and beyond use asphalt shingle roofing systems. They’re reliable and cost-effective, and they make for great roofs. Like any type of roof, though, they can wear down with age and usage.
To determine if your shingles are still in good condition, safely climb up to a vantage point where you can get a clear view of your roof, or use binoculars from the ground if possible. The most common signs of asphalt shingle damage include curling edges, cracked or broken pieces, and even missing shingles altogether. You may also notice dark patches, which could indicate moisture damage, or find granules collecting in your gutters, a sign your shingles are starting to wear down.
Catching these problems early allows for simple repairs, but ignoring them can lead to leaks, structural damage, and the need for a full roof replacement much sooner than expected.
Check for Moss and Algae
Moss and algae usually find their way onto roofs in areas that stay damp and shaded for long periods of time. Both of these can cause serious damage over time, from lifting shingles and trapping moisture to weakening roofing materials and creating leaks.
They typically thrive in dark, damp areas, so be sure to check the north-facing sections of your roof or areas shaded by overhanging trees. If you spot any growth, remove it carefully with a roof-safe cleaning solution and a soft brush, avoiding harsh methods that could ultimately cause more damage.
Taking action early helps protect your roof’s integrity and keeps your home looking its best.
Need Professional Roof Maintenance in Pontiac? Contact Roof One!
DIY maintenance isn’t the only way to help keep your roof safe—professional roof maintenance from Roof One keeps Pontiac homeowners protected year-round. Our team can handle the thorough inspections, repairs, and preventative care that go beyond what DIY upkeep can provide.
Whether you’ve noticed damaged shingles, leaks, or just want peace of mind before another season of harsh Michigan weather, our experts are here to help. Reach out today to schedule roof maintenance in Pontiac, MI!
