How to Prepare Your Roof for Warmer Weather!

Summer’s coming, and while you’re probably dreaming of backyard BBQs, pool days, and family vacations, your roof is about to face its own kind of heatwave. The blazing sun, sudden summer storms, and rising temperatures can take a toll on your roof if it’s not ready to handle the season.

But don’t sweat it—literally. With a little prep work, you can make sure your roof is ready to keep your home cool, dry, and protected all summer long.

Let’s dive into the steps you need to take to get your roof summer-ready.

1. Inspect Your Roof for Damage

First things first: give your roof a good once-over to check for any signs of damage. Winter and spring can be rough on roofs, and even small issues can turn into big problems when summer storms roll in.

What to Look For:

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles.
• Loose or damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
• Sagging areas or dips in the roofline.
• Signs of water damage, like stains on your ceiling or walls.

Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable climbing up on your roof, call in a professional like MARASUN to do a thorough inspection. It’s safer and ensures nothing gets missed.

2. Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters are a recipe for disaster, especially during summer storms. If water can’t flow freely through your gutters, it can back up onto your roof and cause leaks or water damage.

How to Clean Your Gutters:

• Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris by hand or with a gutter scoop.
• Flush out the gutters with a garden hose to make sure water flows freely.
• Check for any sagging or loose sections and repair them as needed.

Pro Tip: Consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

3. Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging branches can wreak havoc on your roof during summer storms. They can scrape against shingles, drop debris onto your roof, or even fall and cause serious damage.

What to Do:

• Trim back any branches that are within 6-10 feet of your roof.
• Focus on branches that hang directly over your roof or gutters.
• Hire a professional tree service if the branches are large or difficult to reach.

Pro Tip: Regular tree trimming not only protects your roof but also helps prevent pests like squirrels and raccoons from using the branches as a highway to your home.

4. Check Your Ventilation

Proper ventilation is key to keeping your home cool and your roof in good shape during the summer. Without it, heat and moisture can build up in your attic, causing your shingles to age prematurely and your energy bills to skyrocket.

How to Check Ventilation:

• Look for ridge vents, soffit vents, or gable vents on your roof.
• Make sure vents are clear of debris and functioning properly.
• Check for signs of poor ventilation, like a hot attic or musty odors.

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure whether your roof is properly ventilated, MARASUN can perform a ventilation assessment and recommend improvements.

5. Look for Signs of Mold or Algae

Warm, humid summer weather creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, algae, and moss. Not only do these growths look unsightly, but they can also damage your shingles and reduce your roof’s lifespan.

How to Spot It:

• Look for dark streaks or green patches on your roof.
• Check shaded areas, where mold and algae are more likely to grow.

How to Remove It:

• Use a roof-safe cleaning solution and a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub away growth.
• Avoid pressure washing, as it can damage your shingles.

Pro Tip: Consider installing algae-resistant shingles or zinc strips to prevent future growth.

6. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, there could be hidden issues that only a professional can spot. A summer roof inspection can catch problems early and save you from costly repairs down the line.

What a Pro Will Check For:

• Hidden leaks or weak spots.
• Proper installation of flashing and vents.
• Signs of wear and tear that could worsen in the summer heat.

Pro Tip: At MARASUN, we offer comprehensive roof inspections to give you peace of mind before summer hits. Plus, we’ll document everything with photos so you can see exactly what’s going on with your roof.

7. Consider a Cool Roof Upgrade

If your roof is due for a replacement or you’re looking to improve energy efficiency, summer is the perfect time to consider a cool roof. Cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, keeping your home cooler and reducing your energy bills.

Benefits of a Cool Roof:

• Lower cooling costs during the summer.
• Reduced wear and tear on your HVAC system.
• A more comfortable home, even on the hottest days.

Pro Tip: Ask MARASUN about cool roof options like reflective shingles, metal roofing, or special coatings that can be applied to your existing roof.

8. Prepare for Summer Storms

Summer storms can be intense, with heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. Taking a few precautions now can help protect your roof when the weather turns nasty.

Storm Prep Checklist:

• Secure loose shingles or flashing.
• Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning.
• Remove any debris from your roof to prevent it from becoming a projectile.

Pro Tip: After a storm, inspect your roof for damage and address any issues immediately to prevent further problems.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your roof for summer might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do to protect your home and save money in the long run. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your roof is ready to handle everything summer throws its way—from scorching heat to sudden storms.

At MARASUN, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need a professional inspection, a cool roof upgrade, or just some expert advice, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let’s get your roof summer-ready!