Tips For Improving Your Roof

Summer is here and it is time to check what debris has collected on your roof during the dreary months of winter. Here is a brief guide to what you should check, how you should clean and some important safety tips for when you are on your roof.
What Can Go Wrong?
There are many things that can accumulate on the roof. Here is a list of all the things that you should look for:

Gutters - This is the first thing that needs to be checked. The gutters are responsible for draining water off the roof. If these get clogged, the water will run along the walls and damage may occur -- both esthetic and structural. So make sure that the gutters are all clear of any debris, dirt, leaves, etc. The gutters can be cleaned with a hard brush and trowel.
Downspouts - From the gutters, the downspouts bring the water to the ground level. Make sure that these are also free of any clogging. This can be ensured by flushing them with a garden hose.
Roof Surface - There can be debris also on the roof itself. If left on the roof, this debris can collect water and thereby result in decay and damage to your roof. Sweeping the roof with a brush can eliminate this problem.
Shingles and Shakes - The spaces (keyways) in between individual shingles and shakes also need to be checked for any debris. This should also be removed. But care needs to be taken while doing this not to damage the shingles or shakes.

Roof Ventilation - On your roof are some pipes and vents etc. These ensure the proper ventilation of the attic and other spaces of the house. These are extremely important for the "well-being" of the house -- see these as the breathing holes of your house. So you must ensure that these breathing points are also free of any debris accumulation.


To kill the moss and mildew use 1 ounce of detergent, 1 quart of 5% chlorox bleach, and 3 quarts warm water. Scrub the surface with a soft brush. Once clean, wash the surface with fresh water.
For a more permanent solution, apply zinc strips to the ridge at about every 10 feet. The zinc reacts with rain water and the chemical solution thus formed runs along the roof and retards formation of moss and mildew.
Safety Issues
Especially on sloping roofs, it is extremely necessary to be cautious while you are inspecting the roof. Some things to keep in mind are:
Wear proper shoes. Shoes with a good grip and traction control should be used.
Step carefully and place your foot in a way that you will not fall.
When a ladder is used to climb up onto the roof, use padding to avoid damage to the gutter. Also it might be a good idea to have a friend or family member on the ground while you inspect the roof above.
Any chemicals that you use to clean the roof should be used with the usual precautions. Wear gloves and if contact occurs wash thoroughly.
In case of an emergency, call the doctor at once