Take care of your roof to avoid water damage

Spring is the perfect time to take care of your roof. Fall and winter of 2024/2025 have seen some of the worst wind storms to hit Whatcom County and Skagit County in years. Many properties suffered significant damages. Some required being rebuilt from the ground up some just needed to be patched and some homes have received damage that hasn’t even been noticed yet. Deferred maintenance is often the leading cause of the water damage in home and businesses.

Do you live in an area with lots of trees?
Did your house shake in the wind?

Whether you are a DIYer or need to hire a professional this is the time to make sure your roof has not developed any issues that will lead to long term significant damage. Some of the common problems we see include:

  1. Tree branch punctures in the roof – Even small branches can create small holes that allow water to slowly seep into your attic or ceiling cavities. These slow leaks often go unnoticed until they cause wet insulation, rotting wood, and dangerous mold growth. Mold can negatively affect indoor air quality and potentially impact the health of your family. What starts as minor roof damage can evolve into a major water and mold issue if left untreated.
  2. Roof shingles, vents, or ridge caps torn off and missing – Missing components can create pathways for water intrusion, especially during spring rains. Trapped moisture can lead to structural damage and mold formation, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces like attics.
  3. Moss and algae growth, as well as buildup of leaves and pine needles – Spring is a prime time for moss and algae to thrive. By applying a moss and algae inhibitor in spring, you can significantly reduce future cleaning costs. Additionally, debris in roof valleys or along roof-to-wall connections can block water flow, leading to water damming. This can allow water to get past your flashing and infiltrate your roof layers, leading to saturation of structural materials and mold outbreaks.
  4. Clogged gutters and downspouts – Plugged-up gutters prevent proper water drainage. This can cause water to back up under shingles or overflow, soaking your roof fascia trim, roof sheathing, and even landscaping below. Persistent moisture in these areas is a direct invitation for mold to grow and spread.

If you don’t have the proper safety equipment or experience, we certainly recommend hiring a professional to perform your inspection, repairs and cleaning. As the weather gets nicer and the rain dissipates, we often overlook how important our roof systems are.

Save money, prevent water damage and mold damage, and protect the health of your family and get your roof checked soon. Please remember if you find these damages now you will most likely still be able to file a claim with your insurance company.