For a typical homeowner, the upkeep and bills just never seem to end, and that’s because they do not. However, the disasters that arise from disrepair and unforeseen incidents can sometimes be avoided. A great example of this is looking after the roof of your house. It’s one of those things that you can do to ascertain its maintained quality. In this read, we are going to mention a few tips on roof maintenance and hopefully help you avoid spending thousands in roof repair as a result of significant damage. No one wouldn’t want to save that much so sit back as we take you through several tips and tricks for keeping the roof clean and functional.
Stay Alert
According to roofing contractor, Refined Exteriors. you should never walk on your roof unless you’re a professional roofer yourself. When it comes to roof inspections, use a ladder and take notes as you work your way around the house. If you have a fear of heights, there is always the option of standing back and using binoculars to inspect the roof. If you spot an issue, you should avail a professional immediately as the problem will only escalate, which will only cost more to fix.
Here is a list of the things to look out for:
Shingles
These are an ideal indicator of the condition of your roof. If you spot several missing shingles and a significant number of cupping and curling or even buckled and chipped shingles, then your roof is in an inferior status. That means it is far its time and needs your full attention. Granules from the shingles is another sign of a deteriorated roof. Some granules will come off naturally and get on the gutters or at the bottom of the downspouts. However, if they have piled up and notice that the roof is spotty or visibly uneven, then your roof is in dire need of replacement. These signs are an indication of more significant problems and are often a sign that the roof is old and requires replacement rather than repair.
Eaves and Guttering
Cleaning the gutters is something that every homeowner should do during spring and autumn. Once debris gathers and piles up too high in the gutters, water will have a hard time flowing to the downspouts and will only soak into the roof and kick-start the rotting process. Gutters ideally prevent foundation damage which can lead to staining, wet basements as well as erosion. Such type of damage is not only stressful but expensive as well and will set you back thousands in repair.
If you’re not comfortable doing the task on your own, the next option is to hire a roof maintenance team. If you decide to take the DIY route, ensure you use the proper access equipment and wear gloves. The last thing you want at this point is scraping out the old leaves and debris with your bare hands. Sweep all this away from the downspout and dispose of it properly. Finally, rinse down the gutters with a high-pressure hose towards the downspout and be on the lookout for animals while out there. Safety should always be a high priority.
A Gap In Chimney Brickwork
Leaks tend to come from chimneys, and so, it is imperative to regularly inspect the flashing and ascertain that it is not peeled away or damaged in any manner. Skylights are one of the easiest to notice when leaking. When you look inside, you will be able to tell right away whether water is passing through. In that case, it needs looking after. You should ideally check the vents to ensure that the sealant is not peeling or cracking. Anything that penetrates through the roof and needs sealing to prevent leaks should be inspected. They are usually the weak points in regards to your roofing and water finding its way into your house.
Inspect the Loft
It is also essential to check upstairs. Keep an eye out for damp spots. Visible water damage is a sign of water leak, and it should not be overlooked even if it appears to be older. It means that water found its way at some point and it is worth checking out even further. If you take a look at it during the day and notice sunlight spots coming in, take note of the location and consider repairing the shingles on the roof where they have broken or worn out.
Keep Large Branches Under Control
Overhanging branches and trees that lead directly to the roof tend to create a straight road for animals that may want to make your loft their habitat. As such, ensure that branches are trimmed around 10 feet away from the roof. However, ensure that you get an expert to help you in this regard. Huge branches when swaying also scrapes the roof which gradually damages the roof. They also detach shingles when there is a strong, windy storm. Putting a significant distance between the branches and the roof also prevents leaves and moss gathering in the gutters and roof. The shade from overhanging trees and branches provides an excellent shade for moss to grow which can be hard to remove once it grows.
Moss Can be Dangerous
There is no denying that they are unsightly and a pain, but note that huge algae spots vary greatly from moss. Black algae are just unappealing and do not cause any damage to your roof. On the contrary, moss retains water which instantly means it needs to be eliminated. If you notice it before it has fully grown on your roof, then it is possible to just sweep it away and call it a day. However, if it has developed for a significant time, it is advisable to kill it instead. Eliminating moss involves utilizing a product that contains potassium salts of fatty acids rather than a product that is way too harmful like a formula that contains zinc sulphate. Also, just apply the product where the moss is growing.
These are the early warning signs of a roof leak:
- Damp spots forming near the fireplace
- Rust on metal pipes
- Browning or dark spots on the ceiling
- Bubbling and blistering paint on the ceiling
- Moist regions in the attic
With these tips and tricks, you should be ready to inspect your home and roof. It is important to keep in mind and ascertain that your house is in good condition and secure. The interior of your house is important to check even after inspecting the roof. As soon as you see the warning signs, handle the problem as soon as you can. This will save you stress, time and money in the future. Do not wait any longer. When you notice an issue early, it is highly likely that it is easy to resolve. The last thing you want is something destroying the comfort of your home in terms of mold infestation, a hole in the roof, a ruined foundation or a flooded basement. A leaky roof will only cause more damage when not remedied than it would cost to fix the root problem. Use the tips mentioned in this read to keep your roof in excellent condition.
