One final descent into cold temperatures; one final flurry of snow; one final breath of arctic winds and winter is retreating. We can only hope that the remnants of the coldest season are not too severe and what we get is only a gentle reminder of what we’ve left behind. As winter leaves and we are ushered into a new season taking the time to do an assessment of roof conditions after this particular severe winter is a cautious way to prepare for spring and the weather it brings.

Only in Idaho can the sun be shining, hail falling, wind blowing, and rain sprinkling all at the same time. Typical spring weather can change instantaneously and be just as erratic from one breeze to the next. Weathering Idaho springs is something Idahoans are used to and we don’t give it another thought.

However, as roofs age they need a little extra attention, especially when inconsistent weather abounds. Assessing roofs before the onset of each season or after a season wraps up, depending on how you look at it, is a positive maintenance strategy. Doing so will help determine what items need addressed to flow through the next stormy season without any roof leaks. Preventive maintenance will also keep major commercial roof repairs to a minimum.

Items to look for when making an amateur assessment:

• Check for loose flashings along walls
• Ensure coping cap is securely fastened
• On flat roofs gouges or tears in the membrane need to be addressed by a qualified technicians, if this is observed contact Upson Company
• Assess that all shingles or tiles are not askew and are laying flat
• Remove and dispose of any large debris that could be blown around the roof

And if you’re ever unsure about the condition of your roof Upson Company is always available.