As we have closed out the month of May and welcomed June, it's pretty much assumed at this point that we are officially in "summer" mode. In Florida, that means more than the end of school and planning for vacations...it also means hurricane season, routine thunderstorms, and HEAT. This can take a toll on your roof over time, and if you've skipped having routine inspections done in the past, now is the time to make up for it.

How exactly can summer put your roof at risk?

• Hurricanes. June 1st marked the kickoff of hurricane season 2021, and while there are no storms on the radar right now, we all know that can change in a matter of days. Hurricanes bring an incredible amount of rain, and in more serious cases, strong winds. These two elements alone can be detrimental to your roof even if it's in good shape, but if there are any weak spots or existing damage, even one minor hurricane could prove catastrophic. Things to watch for include loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or roof vents, and clogged gutters if your home has them. Unfortunately, other issues that could leave your roof compromised can't be seen with the naked eye from the ground. That's why annual roof inspections or vital to protecting your home. Spots that are aging, or damage going on beneath the shingles, will be caught early and repaired before it has a chance to be a bigger (and more expensive) problem.

• Thunderstorms. Florida is known for its afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. The lightning is impressive, but the RAIN is what really stands out. It can go from sunny to monsoon in a matter of seconds, and when your roof has to stand up to that heavy rain day after day for months, it can lead to leaks. What's more, the continued exposure to water can harbor moisture and condensation (including your attic!) and that can lead to the decay of wood and roof materials over time. Again, roof inspections are the best way to combat these problems, as professionals check for hidden moisture or weak areas that you might not see on your own.

• Heat. The Sunshine State got its name for a reason. The sun is intense, and our summers are hot. The extreme temperatures take a toll on your roof after a while. Shingles break down more quickly in Florida, and a roof that should last 30 years might only make it to 15. Taking measures to extend the life of your roof saves you money in the long run, and also protects your home (and your home's insurance policy) when bad weather does come your way. When it is time to replace your roof, hiring a roofing contractor that has your best interests at heart and runs and honest, ethical business, is key. You need someone who will help you choose the best materials for the job, and is experienced with Florida's conditions, so you will get the maximum number of years out of your new roof.

  EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the greater Polk County community with the very best in customer care and quality service. We provide roof inspections, repair services, and full replacement options for homes of all sizes and styles. We put your needs first, giving you an honest and accurate report, and working with you to find the best solution for our needs and your budget. Give us a call to schedule your inspection and to receive a detailed estimate for your roof.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, with Christmas close behind, and we know many of you are gearing up for holiday preparations. While there's always your "standard" list of things to get done (like pulling the Christmas wreaths from the attic or hunting for your grandmother's famous pie recipes) each year brings its own unique to-do list. This year is certainly no exception, with 2020 bringing new elements into our holiday traditions. Maybe you're adding hand sanitizer by the door, or doing "virtual" Thanksgiving dinner with faraway relatives who can't travel. No matter how you plan to celebrate, everyone can agree that holidays go better when your home is ready.

Unfortunately, one major part of your home tends to get overlooked when it comes to maintenance and care. Your roof plays an important part in keeping your home's structure intact, and keeping the inside safe and dry, yet homeowners forget about it for years at a time. Until, that is, a problem comes up. It's important to understand though that there are things you can do all year long to keep your roof at its best and prevent major issues (and expensive repairs) from coming your way.

Three of our most recommended tips are:

1. Save the experiments for the kitchen. The holidays are a time of enjoying the smells and flavors of the season, and the kitchen is a great place to experiment with new dishes and flavor combinations. Your roof, on the other hand, is NOT the place to experiment. If you notice a small problem like a shingle coming loose or a tiny leak over your patio, "rigging" it with spray sealant, outdoor caulk, or some other bonding agent is NOT the answer. Not only are many of these materials not intended for use on your roof, but they could actually cause more damage in the long run. Before a small problem turns into a big catastrophe, call in the pros.

2. Don't let Santa be the only one up on the rooftop each year. An annual roof inspection by a licensed and insured roof contractor is the ideal way to keep your roof's structure and condition under watch, meaning any problems can be caught early and repaired easily. This can protect you from extensive water damage, warranting a full roof replacement, and will usually save you money in the long run.

3. Show your home you care...maintain your space! Not only does your roof need regular maintenance, but the trees and space around it do too. Failing to prune back trees, remove leaf litter, or let extensive algae build up can actually cause damage to your shingles and roofing materials over time. Trim back trees so they stay several feet from the surface of your roof, and have leaves and buildup removed professionally. Good news! EZ Roofing Systems now offers a cleaning service that does this for you, so you can get your inspection and your cleaning done all at one time!

We hope your Thanksgiving preparations go smoothly and you can look forward to the holidays with anticipation and joy after a hard year. EZ Roofing Systems is here to make it a little easier with our top-of-the-line customer service and attention to ethics and detail. We make roofing issues less stressful and easier to manage. When something goes wrong with your roof, call Bob the Roofer!