Spring Cleaning for Your Home’s Exterior: Roofing & Siding Checklist

Spring, the season of renewal, presents the perfect opportunity to give your home’s exterior the attention it deserves. Most people associate spring cleaning with the indoors, but your roof and siding also require care to keep your home looking its best. You can trust the professionals at Elevated Roofing & Siding to ensure your roof and siding are doing their job of protecting your home. Use our roofing and siding checklist below to spot potential issues and prepare your home for the warmer months ahead.

Check for Damaged or Missing Shingles

Look for cracked, curling, or missing shingles on your roof, paying close attention to the areas around vents, chimneys, and flashing. Discolored patches may indicate granule loss or water absorption. If you can’t safely examine your entire roof, be sure and reach out to a professional for an inspection.

Trim Overhanging Tree Limbs

Prevent tree branches from landing on your roof during a storm by trimming any overhanging limbs. Branches that are too close to your roof could scrape against your shingles or drop excess debris on your roof. Plus, clearing space around your roof will allow sunlight to dry out moisture that could otherwise result in moss growth.

Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Your gutters and downspouts should be cleaned out about twice each year, including the springtime. Remove all leaves, twigs, and other debris, and ensure that your downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation. Installing gutter guards will help minimize your future gutter cleaning.

Look for Signs of Water Damage or Mold

While you are giving the exterior of your home some much needed attention, be sure and check for signs of water damage or mold. If you notice stains on your ceilings or in the attic, your roof may be leaking and will need to be checked by a professional. Additionally, check your soffits and fascia boards for any rot or mold growth.

Carefully Wash Your Siding

If your siding needs to be cleaned, you can use a low-pressure washer along with a mild detergent to remove built-up grime, mildew, and pollen from the surface. Avoid using a high-pressure washer on older or more delicate siding materials. Your siding manufacturer will be able to provide any special cleaning instructions.

Inspect Your Siding for Cracks or Warping

Examine your siding to check for any loose or broken panels or planks. If you notice cracking, bulging, or sections that are pulling away from your house, you may need to consult a professional about repairs or a possible replacement. Watch for signs of any pest damage around compromised siding to prevent an infestation.

Get Your Home Ready for the Season

Your home exterior spring cleaning tasks will help you get ahead of small issues before they become costly repairs. Spending some time inspecting and maintaining your roof and siding can save you money and give you peace of mind. Contact us at (937) 248-1362 if you need help with your spring exterior inspection. We are here to help customers in the Dayton area and surrounding communities including Troy, Tipp City, Vandalia, Centerville, Beavercreek, Springboro, and beyond.