Cut off any large branches that are directly over your roof. Tree branches can be a problem for a few reasons. The most important concern is the risk of them falling on your roof during severe weather. Overhanging trees are also contributing factors to roof algae and rodent activity.

Keeping trees trimmed back from your roof will:

1. Reduce the risk of branches falling and possibly penetrating your roof during a storm.

2. Reduce the amount of leaves and debris that accumulate on your roof and in your gutters.

3. Reduce moisture on your roof, discouraging algae or moss growth.

4. Reduce access to your roof by squirrels and other rodents.

If you have shingles that appear wavy along the edges or lifted off the roof surface, some nails may have risen up or “popped.” When a roof is shingled, each layer of shingles is positioned over the nails in the layer beneath it. If one of these nails pops up, the shingle on top will rise, creating a wavy look. This is a common occurrence, usually caused by temperature and humidity fluctuations.

A popped nail will eventually lead to a water leak if not addressed. Water can seep into the space surrounding the raised nail, especially after a heavy storm with wind-driven rain that gets under the edges of a lifted shingle.

If you suspect nail pops, give us a call. Our professional roofers will inspect your roof, make recommendations, and get you on the schedule for roof repairs or a replacement.

Cracked pipe boots are the most common reason for roof leaks. Over time, weather and temperature changes can cause the rubber gasket around the plumbing vent to crack and allow water intrusion. Also check for damage caused by squirrels. Squirrels chew pipe boots, especially lead boots, to wear down their constantly growing teeth. If you see evidence of rodent activity, investigate ways to deter them.

Proper ventilation is vital to your roof’s longevity. Much of the premature roof damage we see is due to improper roof ventilation. Inspect ventilation for obstructions and properly working fans or turbines. If heat and condensation get trapped in your attic, it will deteriorate the plywood underlayment (aka decking), cause delamination of the layers, and weaken the nail holding power. This can lead to possible shingle blow-offs and the need for full decking replacement.

Caulking keeps exposed nail heads on roof penetration flanges (the exposed are on top of the shingles) watertight. Keeping you home watertight is what your roof is there for. Replace loose or missing caulk as needed.

No roof maintenance checklist would be complete without talking about gutters. It’s no fun, but cleaning out our gutters is an essential part of roof maintenance. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under the shingles. Most experts recommend cleaning them out twice a year, once in late spring and again in early fall.

Pine straw, leaves, and sticks sometimes accumulate on our roofs or in valleys and don’t make it to the gutters. It’s a good idea to periodically remove that debris. If left on your roof, it can create a dam, causing water to back up under the shingles and possibly create a leak.

The attic of your home is the perfect haven for small animals, such as squirrels and rats. They can cause severe damage to your home by chewing holes in your roof or walls, causing leaks, chewing electrical wiring, and creating a biohazard with their waste. Their waste also attracts other undesirable critters such as roaches. Early detection is the key.

1. Go to the attic during the day, when there is plenty of light outside.

2. Use a flashlight and check for water stains and leaks on the underside of the roof underlayment (decking). Check for signs of water damage on the floor of the attic.

3. Turn the lights off and inspect the roof decking for any daylight shining through. That could indicate roof damage has occurred.