Roof Maintenance Tips
Regular roof maintenance is relatively easy and cheap, when compared to the overwhelming task of having to replace it, entirely. Here are some important roof maintenance tips to keep in mind…
When Should You Inspect Your Roof For Repairs?
At minimum, you should inspect your roof every year. Most people do it in the spring due to the fair weather conditions, as well as the fact that it follows winter – an obviously hard season for roofs. Heavy snow buildup, ice dams and other harsh weather factors can do lots of damage to shingles, gutters and the roof structure in general. Make sure to check your roof after a big storm, or any other event that may have caused your roof to need repairs.
Why Exactly Does Your Roof Leak?
More often than not, when your roof leaks, it’s due to improper installation of flashings – material specifically designed to prevent water from coming into your home.
Types of roof flashings include…
- chimney flashing
- step flashing
- apron flashing
- valley flashing (where two roofs join together)
During a roof repair, it is vital to look for any roof deterioration that could lead to further problems if untreated. If leaks are looked over, the structure of the entire home may be weakened, if the frame begins to rot from continued exposure to dampness.
Other causes of a leaky roof…
- Improperly installed shingles
- Improperly installed gutters
- Improperly aligned flue pipes in the chimney
- Improperly installed or defective siding
- Improperly installed or defective windows
Dealing With Skylights
The sealant around the glass of a skylight can deteriorate over the years and water will be able to seep through it. This is a very regular problem with older skylights, but this can be easy remedied. Simply seal the perimeter of the glass with a quality outdoor silicone, and leaking should stop.
Cleaning Your Roof
Your roof ought to be cleaned properly in order to remove dirt and other debris. Don’t use a pressure washer because the force is often too powerful for shingles, causing them to be damaged or removed completely. Also, the strong force of a pressure washer might wreak havoc on the interior of the home, if there is an undetected leak anywhere on your roof. It is also important that gutters be properly cleaned in order to prevent a buildup of rainwater, ice or other debris that may lead to added weight, and damage. Gutters are extremely important as they lead excess water away from the home.
By practicing good “roof heath,” your home will continue to be a sanctuary for you and your family, as well as a valuable investment for your future. Don’t put-off proper roof care, until it’s too late!
