By Paul Bianchina
Q. We have a composition roof, and have a couple of maintenance questions. Is it necessary to remove leaves and pine needs if they're not excessive (and how do you define excessive)? Should we sweep or blow off the roof, or will that damage it? Any other roof maintenance suggestions?
--Charles B.
A. In general, I would consider a buildup of leaves and pine needles to be excessive if it becomes deep enough to trap and hold moisture on the roof and in turn cause mildew to form, or if it interferes with the flow of water coming off the roof. Other excessive buildup problems would be one that puts a lot of weight on the roof in one area, or that blocks gutters or buildups against or behind flashings, chimneys, flues, etc.
I have used or seen used any number of methods for removing leaf and needle buildup, including a plastic leaf rake, medium-bristle push boom, air blower and pressure washer. I do not recommend the power washer, because the pressure is too intense for the shingles and the water makes it dangerous to work on the roof. Other then that, some shedding of granules will occur with any of the other three methods - just make sure you use the lightest amount of sweeping, raking or air pressure possible.
Other roof maintenance suggestions include trimming overhanging trees to prevent excessive shedding and to allow sunlight to reach the roof to minimize mildew growth; keeping gutters and downspouts free of buildup; and examining your roof each spring to check the condition of shingles, ridge, and flashings.
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