As winter fades away, it’s the perfect time to give your roof the attention it deserves. Cold weather, snow, and ice can quietly damage your roofing system—and spring is your chance to catch problems early and avoid costly repairs. At American Restoration, we specialize in protecting homes across New Mexico, El Paso, and West Texas. Here are the top spring roof maintenance tips every homeowner should follow to extend the life of their roof and keep their home safe.
1. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts
Winter storms can clog your gutters with leaves, branches, and debris. If left untouched, this can lead to water overflow, roof rot, and even foundation damage. If you live in a rural or mountainous area and have dry leaves build up on the roof, it can also be a potential hazard during summer lightning storms or during wildfire events.
Pro Tip: Use a gutter scoop or hire a professional roof repair service to ensure proper drainage. Clean gutters also help prevent mold growth and water intrusion into your attic or walls.
2. Inspect the Roof for Damage
On a pitched roof building, shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. Spring is the time to look for:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Bald spots where granules are missing
- Exposed nail heads or loose flashing
If your property has a traditional, New Mexican flat roof, look for cracks; bubbling in the roofing membrane; damaged flashing around skylights, vents or a swamp cooler; mold or algae. After a rain, inspect the roof to be sure that water does not pond on the roof.
These issues may seem minor at first, but over time, they can lead to leaks, rot, or structural compromise. If you notice any of the above, contact a roofing professional to repair or replace the affected area before summer heat worsens the damage.
3. Watch for Mold, and Mildew
Moisture trapped under debris or damaged roofing can lead to mold growth, especially in shady areas of your roof.
Why it matters: Mold can weaken roofing materials and potentially cause health problems. A professional roof cleaning or inspection can safely remove buildup and prevent future issues. Consider installing zinc or copper strips near the ridge line to deter future algae growth.
If you suspect that mold may have penetrated the home, call us for a mold inspection and, if needed, remediation of the area.
4. Check for Signs of Interior Water Damage
Don’t forget to look inside your home. After heavy winter storms, inspect your attic and ceilings for:
- Water stains
- Sagging drywall
- Musty smells
These may be signs of a slow leak that’s gone unnoticed. Water can travel along beams and walls before becoming visible, which is why it’s crucial to address any signs quickly. If water damage has already occurred, reach out to our water damage restoration team right away.
5. Document Any Damage for Insurance
If you spot signs of roof damage—especially after a storm—take clear, timestamped photos.
Why it’s important: Proper documentation helps support your insurance claims and ensures a smoother disaster recovery process. Keep a running log of photos and notes, and notify your insurance provider promptly.
If there is water damage or mold, American Restoration Water and Fire will work with your insurance company and make the process easy!
6. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if you don’t see obvious damage, a spring roof inspection by a licensed contractor can uncover hidden issues.
A roofing expert should check for:
- Structural damage
- Flashing or sealant failures
- Ventilation and drainage issues
Ensure your roof is ready for the demands of summer—like monsoon rain, extreme heat, and high winds. An inspection now can help you avoid emergency repairs down the line.
7. Check Roof Ventilation
Many homeowners overlook roof ventilation, but it’s essential to your roof’s long-term performance. Poor ventilation can lead to excessive attic heat, condensation, and even warped shingles.
Ensure all vents are clear of debris, nests, or damage. If you’re unsure, let a pro take a look as part of your spring inspection.
Why Spring Roof Maintenance Matters
Catching small issues early—such as clogged gutters or signs of roof wear—can help you avoid major problems like:
- Interior water damage
- Mold growth
- Ceiling collapse
- Structural wood rot
If your home shows signs of roof-related water intrusion, American Restoration Water and Fire is here to help. We provide 24/7 emergency service and work quickly to remove water, dry affected areas, and restore your home after a leak or storm.
Need Help With Spring Roof Repairs?
If you’ve found any issues where water damage has occurred because of problems with the roof on your home or commercial building, contact American Restoration Water and Fire today. We provide expert water damage repair and full-service property restoration across New Mexico, El Paso, and West Texas.
