Spring roof checks help spot winter damage

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Homeowners can protect their roofs this spring by inspecting for damage, cleaning gutters carefully and working with a certified contractor. 

When winter weather gives way to spring maintenance, homeowners have an important opportunity to evaluate how well their roofs held up through freezing temperatures, storms and seasonal debris. A roof is a home’s first line of defense and issues such as cracked shingles, damaged flashing, hail impact and granule loss can become larger problems if they are not addressed early. Malarkey Roofing Products® recommends beginning with a careful visual inspection.  

Missing or displaced shingles may point to wind damage, while circular areas of granule loss can indicate hail impact. Homeowners should also look for large amounts of granules in gutters, which can be a sign of aging shingles and inspect metal flashing around chimneys and vents for rust, gaps or damage caused by ice expansion. 

The company points to its NEX® Polymer Modified (SBS Rubberized) Asphalt as a key part of its shingle performance. According to Malarkey, the material incorporates upcycled polymers from tires and plastic bags to create shingles designed for flexibility, durability and resilience. Malarkey also notes that its Legacy® and Vista® shingle lines carry a Class 4 impact rating, while NEX® asphalt is designed to improve granule adhesion. 

Gutter cleaning is another essential part of spring roof care, but it should be done carefully. Homeowners should avoid using pressure washers on shingles because high-pressure water can remove protective granules and compromise the asphalt. Plastic gutter scoops are preferred over metal tools, which can scrape shingle edges and downspouts should be checked to make sure water flows away from the foundation. 

For homeowners who want a professional evaluation, Malarkey recommends working with a Malarkey Certified Contractor. These contractors receive training on the company’s roofing systems, including The Zone® nailing area and the Secure Choice™ Residential Roofing System, and can provide guidance on installation, inspection and warranty options. 

Learn more about Malarkey Roofing Products spring roof maintenance and certified contractor resources!