Before taking the time to Marie Kondo your clothes and linen closets, check the outside of your home for cleaning and maintenance tasks that require attention now. Roofs, gutters, attics, siding, skylight and vent cleaning may all benefit from a professional inspection.
“Annual inspections and cleaning of a home’s exterior helps identify potential issues before they become a problem,” says Cameron Ernst, home care technician at Valentine Roofing.
Moss
Ernst and his team recently cleaned a roof that had been neglected for many years and was covered in moss and leaves. Their roof inspection revealed extensive shingle lift caused by the root system of the moss. The damage caused by years of neglect significantly reduced the life of this roof, resulting in more costly and time-consuming repairs, Ernst says.
Being proactive reduces the chances of this kind of damage, saving homeowners time and money. Steven Heller, CEO of Valentine Roofing.
Moss can destroy a roof in as little as 12 months, Heller says. It holds moisture against the shingles, leading to leaks and premature deterioration. It can lift shingles away from the roof, allowing water intrusion, and it blocks drainage, causing leaks and rot.
Expert moss removal followed by an eco-friendly treatment that prevents regrowth will prolong the life of the roof and protect other systems.
Neglecting your roof can lead to leaks and interior water damage. Even a small leak can cause mold growth, wood rot and ceiling stains, explains Heller. Water intrusion can weaken your home’s rafters and compromise its structural integrity. Clogged vents and moss buildup leads to higher cooling costs in the summer.
Algae
Along with moss, here in the Northwest algae is a familiar contributor to our green color palette. It grows on just about everything, says Ernst, including walkways, patios and driveways.
“Combine a few rain showers with an algae-covered walkway, and you’ve suddenly got a dangerous slip hazard for your guests,” he says. “Annual cleaning and maintenance of these pavings provide safety for every package delivery, visitor and homeowner.”
When it comes to your home’s siding, it should be cleaned annually. Removing the mold, algae, pests, dirt and other grime keeps the siding from prematurely deteriorating or oxidizing. Clean siding also displays better curb appeal, says Ernst.
To make sure you hire a legitimate, expert professional to take care of your exterior cleaning and maintenance needs, Heller suggests spending some time on research before booking an appointment.
- Read reviews of the company. Google, Angi and the BBB all reveal past customer experiences.
- Verify their licensing and insurance. This protects you against accidents.
- Ask for references and before and after photos. A reputable company will retain proof of their quality work.
- Get more than one estimate and then compare them. Watch for vague pricing or pressure tactics.
“A little research can prevent costly mistakes,” Heller says.
Regular maintenance
Outdoor home maintenance is an absolute must for every home, says Ernst. After a wet, icy and windy winter, it’s always a good idea to clean the roof, siding, walkways and windows. Annual cleanings and inspections of the home’s exterior will help identify potential issues before they become a problem.
In addition to treating any moss or algae issues, Ernst offers this checklist.
- Clean gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the roofline, prompting wood rot and water damage.
- Remove debris. Leaves, branches and needles trap moisture and promote moss and algae growth.
- Clear skylights and vents. This ensures proper ventilation, prevents leaks and extends the life of these features.
- Inspect roofs and attics. Identifying small issues early prevents expensive repairs later.
“Whether a homeowner is getting their home ready to sell or just refreshing it for barbecue season, annual maintenance ensures a safe and beautiful space,” Ernst says.
Valentine Roofing has been serving and caring for our Puget Sound neighbors since 2008. Our focus is to provide an award-winning customer experience with all our offerings. Visit valentineroof.com to learn more about our services.