Living in Arkansas means enjoying beautiful springs and warm summers, but it also means dealing with high humidity and the occasional severe storm. Our unique climate takes a toll on your home’s exterior, making seasonal maintenance more than just a chore—it’s a necessity for protecting your investment.
To help you keep your property in top shape, we have put together this essential seasonal checklist covering everything from the shingles on your roof to the grass in your yard.
1. Restore Your Roof (Don’t Just Watch It Fade)
If you look up at your roof and see black streaks, you aren’t looking at dirt—you’re likely looking at Gloeocapsa Magma, a type of algae that feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles. In our humid Arkansas climate, this bacteria thrives and spreads quickly.
- Inspect for “Hot Spots”: Look for dark streaks on the north-facing side of your roof where moisture lingers longest.
- Avoid Pressure Washing: Never use high pressure on asphalt shingles. It can void your warranty and strip away the protective granules.
The Solution: Schedule a professional soft wash. At Arkansas Roof Cleaning, we use a specialized low-pressure system that kills the algae at the root without damaging your shingles. It instantly boosts curb appeal and extends the life of your roof.
2. Lawn Care: The Foundation of Curb Appeal
Once your roof is clean, your eyes naturally drift down to the lawn. Arkansas soil can be tricky—often compacted and clay-heavy—so it needs help to breathe.
- Clear the Debris: Remove any lingering oak leaves or acorns from the previous season, as they can smother grass and invite pests.
- Mow High: When you start mowing in the spring, set your blade higher. Taller grass develops deeper roots, which is crucial for surviving the dry heat of July and August.
- Aerate: If water pools on your lawn after a rainstorm, your soil is likely compacted. Aerating pulls small plugs of soil from the ground to let oxygen and nutrients reach the roots.
3. Tune Up Your Irrigation System
A green lawn requires water, but a broken sprinkler system can waste hundreds of dollars in utility bills before you even notice a problem. Before you set your timer for the season, you need to ensure every zone is firing correctly.
- Check for Leaks: Walk your yard while the system is running. Soggy patches often indicate a cracked pipe underground.
- Adjust Heads: Ensure spray heads are targeting the grass, not your driveway or siding.
- Get a Pro Check-Up: Complex systems often have hidden issues like backflow failures or pressure imbalances. It is highly recommended to schedule a professional irrigation system inspection to ensure your setup is efficient and leak-free.
A thorough audit now prevents dead patches and high water bills later in the summer.
4. Clean Your Gutters
Finally, make sure your gutters are flowing freely. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your roof shingles or overflow onto your foundation. While we are up there cleaning your roof, ask us about checking your gutters to ensure your home has a complete drainage path.
Ready to Restore Your Home’s Curb Appeal?
Don’t let algae and grime take over your home’s exterior. Contact Arkansas Roof Cleaning today at (501) 289-5878 to schedule your free estimate. We’ll handle the hard work so you can enjoy the season.