A well-maintained roof can protect your home from costly repairs, and maintain energy efficiency. Regular maintenance services include cleaning and inspections.
Cleaning the gutters can ensure water drainage, and prevent clogs that lead to leaks. Flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, and skylights should be inspected for damage.
Damaged shingles should be repaired promptly. Leaving these problems unattended can shorten the lifespan of your roof.
A roof’s flashing helps to protect against leaks by directing water away from areas of the roof that are susceptible to leaks and other structural damage. These vulnerable areas include intersections between different roof planes, valleys, chimneys, skylights, vents and any other projection or interruption on the roof. Generally, roofing professionals install flashing by overlapping the roof materials and sealing them with caulk or other weatherproofing material.
Roof flashing is typically metal, such as aluminum, copper or galvanized steel. Over time, if not properly maintained, this protective layer can develop cracks or other damage, which allows water to seep into the interior of your home. If you notice any water stains on ceilings or walls near chimneys, vents or other roof structures, this could be a sign that the flashing is defective.
When flashing fails, it can allow moisture to penetrate the roof and rot the sheathing, underlayment, rafters and other wood framing that supports the roof. In addition, leaks in the attic can encourage mold growth and other serious health and safety issues.
During your roof inspection, look for signs of flashing damage, such as rust or corrosion. If you spot any gaps in the flashing, reseal these areas with new caulk. Also, make sure that the flashing is snugly fitted around any roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents or skylights.
If the flashing is damaged, consider having it replaced by a professional. Depending on the type of flashing, you may need to remove and then replace shingles surrounding or covering the area. It is also important to remove any old caulk from the flashing before replacing it, so that you are working with a fresh seal that can withstand the elements.
Clean the Gutters
Gutter cleaning is one of the most important aspects of roof maintenance. This is because when gutters are clogged, they can not do their job of directing water away from the roof and home foundation.
Clogged gutters can cause water to seep under the shingles, which damages the structure of the roof and eventually causes leaks. For this reason, experts recommend that homeowners clean their gutters at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in fall. In addition to cleaning the gutters, homeowners should also check their downspouts to make sure that they are not clogged or blocked.
To keep your gutters in good condition, you can install gutter guards, which will help to prevent debris from entering the gutters. However, even with gutter guards, you should still clean out your gutters on a regular basis to remove any dirt, grime, or sludge that can build up.
Another important part of roof maintenance is removing any dead tree branches or other debris that may have fallen on the roof. A limb that is too close to the roof can damage shingles and cause leaks.
It is also a good idea to examine the chimney for cracks, missing bricks or mortar and other signs of wear and tear. You should also regularly clear away a soot-like substance called creosote from the chimney using a chimney brush. Finally, you should make sure that the seals around roof penetrations like skylights, vents and chimneys are in good shape.
If you do decide to clean the gutters yourself, it is essential to use proper safety precautions and to work from a ladder. Experts recommend working with a partner when working on a ladder and staying away from the edge of the roof to avoid falling off. It is also a good idea to hire a professional who has experience with roofs and gutters.
In addition to a ladder and a tool, you will need to have a strong arm and a pair of gloves to help you reach into the gutters to clean them. A tool called a Gutter Sense can be used to help you reach into the gutters without needing to lean over the edge of your roof. The tool is designed with a set of tongs that you can open and close, which allows you to grab and remove debris from the gutter troughs. Once you have removed the debris, you should lower the tool and dispose of it properly.
Trim Tree Branches
If tree limbs overhang the roof, they can cause damage during stormy weather. They can scrape the shingles, leading to deterioration and moisture rot. They can also catch and block out the sun, causing the shingles to dry out prematurely, allowing mold and moss to grow on them. This creates a perfect environment for leaks to develop. Additionally, they can become a bridge for pests to enter the house, so regular trimming is essential.
If you’re concerned about how far away from the roof a particular tree should be, it’s best to hire a certified arborist. They have the knowledge of how much to trim and when, based on the species of the tree. They will also be able to identify potential problems before they get out of control.
While you’re having the tree trimmed, it’s a good idea to check for damage to your roof and any other structures on your property. If you find any damage, have a professional inspect it to ensure the repairs are done correctly and that no further damage will occur.
If you are a DIY homeowner, take photos of the impacted areas before attempting to remove the limbs. This will come in handy if you need to file an insurance claim later on.
Before removing the limbs, make sure you’re using the right ladder for the job and that it is positioned securely on the ground or another stable surface. If possible, cut the limbs close to their source near the trunk of the tree. Avoid cutting too deeply into the trunk, as this can damage it. Instead, a good rule of thumb is to cut the limb about 2 inches from its end.
After you’ve removed the limbs, it’s important to sweep away any debris that might have fallen during the process. This will minimize the risk of further moisture rot and other damage to the roof. You should also check that the gutters are clear of any obstructions. If you’ve found a lot of debris in the gutters, it’s a good idea to have them professionally cleaned.
Inspect the Attic
The attic is an important part of the roof structure and can be an indication of problems with your roof. If you see water stains, mold or rot in the attic, this is often a sign of a leaky roof. The leaking water will eventually find its way into the house, causing further damage and possibly damaging interior living spaces. A professional home inspector will inspect the attic for signs of a leaky roof and will recommend the correct repair method.
A professional inspection can also check the attic for ventilation issues and adequate insulation. Insulation is important because it provides resistance to heat flow, which can help reduce energy costs.
When the insulation in an attic is not sufficient, it can result in a drafty home, which can be expensive to heat and cool. A professional will use a thermal imaging camera to determine the depth of the insulation in the attic and will recommend the proper amount of insulation to add.
In addition to the insulation, a professional will also check the attic for any signs of moisture in the wood framing and trusses. Moisture can lead to a host of problems, including rotting wood and the growth of toxic mold. This type of moisture must be corrected as soon as possible to protect the home’s structural integrity.
An attic inspection can also reveal important information about the history of a home. For example, a black or sooty attic floor could indicate a fire break out in the house and tunnels or wood shavings may point to infestation by wood-destroying insects.
If a homeowner is unable to conduct a full attic inspection, they should consult with a professional roofing contractor for assistance. The professionals at a reputable roofing company can perform a comprehensive attic inspection and recommend the best course of action for any problems that are discovered. They can also provide preventative maintenance tips to keep the attic and roof in good condition. A regular roofing inspection can also help homeowners save money on high energy bills and avoid costly repairs in the future.
