Spring is the time of year most often associated with rebirth, flowers blooming, and nature returning to its peak. But unfortunately, not everything that the springtime brings is so cheerful. This season also brings an uptick in inclement weather, including severe thunder and lightning storms.
As a central Pennsylvania homeowner, you'll need to fortify your home against these potentially hazardous weather conditions. Every year, more homeowners in central Pennsylvania experience significant damage to their roofs and drainage systems as a result of severe thunderstorms.
So what can you do to protect your home from sustaining costly damages? Don't worry—our central PA roofers are here to help. Read on for an overview of the most important things you can do to prepare for the spring storm season.
What You Should Do to Prepare
It's always a good idea to take preventative steps for your roof. Here are some things to consider:
Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected
A professional roof inspection can help you to identify any problem areas early. It's the best way to make sure you don't have any cracks or places where leaks would be inevitable.
You can easily schedule a roof inspection by contacting your local central PA roofing company.
Replace Any Problematic Shingles
If you have any cracked, damaged, or missing shingles, you'll need to get them replaced. Otherwise, your home will be vulnerable to leaks and water damage.
Shingle replacement is critical before the spring storms hit and right after a thunderstorm passes. High winds and heavy rain can loosen shingles or crack them.
If you are inexperienced with shingle repair, your local central PA roofing contractors can assist you with this process.
Clean Your Gutters
This point might sound mundane, but if you don't clean your gutters regularly, they can get clogged. It can lead to excessive water buildup, which can cause damage to your roof if left unmitigated.
Dead leaves, fallen branches, and trash all can pile up in the gutters. Some of it may be the remnants of winter, and some of it may be from the storm itself.
Central PA roofers can clear your gutters to keep the rainwater flowing.
What Else You Need to Know
- Gutters and Downspouts. Check that your gutters are not only clean but also fixed securely to the house. That way, the water keeps draining into the appropriate locations.
- Flashings. These layers of plastic around windows and doors are potential entry points for moisture. Remember to check all of your home's flashings to ensure that they are correctly affixed and free of damage. You may need to have some replaced.
- Membrane. Homes with attics typically have a protective membrane designed to keep out water. Have these inspected for damages and replaced if needed.
Conclusion
Protecting your home against water damage and potential leaks should be your top priority when spring arrives. Need assistance preparing your roof for the spring storm season? Give us a call! Our team of roofing experts is always available to help out with any central PA roofing needs.