Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home. Regular roof maintenance keeps it looking beautiful and protects the rest of your house.

Most roof issues become more costly the longer they go unchecked. Performing routine inspections allows homeowners to address problems early and save money. Visit Website to learn more.

It also helps ensure that the roof stays in compliance with manufactures warranty disclaimers.

The shingles on your roof protect the framing of the house from water damage and weather. They can also be the first to show signs of a problem and it’s important to look for potential issues on a regular basis. This can prevent expensive repairs and help to avoid more serious problems in the future.

Missing shingles can expose the interior of your home to the elements and may allow wind to further dislodge other sections of the roof, which could lead to extensive and costly damage over time. It is also essential to make sure that all shingles are securely nailed and sealed, as loose shingles can blow away in high winds, which would cause further damage and leaks.

Curling and buckling shingles are a sign of age and can also be caused by moisture buildup in the attic. A professional can determine if your shingles are in need of replacement or if you can wait for them to recover.

It is important to check that the granules are still intact on all shingles, as this will help to shield them from UV rays. Excessive granule loss is a sign that the shingle will be losing its life and should be replaced immediately. It is also crucial to check the flashing around vents, chimneys and skylights on a regular basis. The caulk can crack or break, and if it isn’t properly maintained, it will not be effective in preventing water leaks.

Another common problem is the presence of moss and lichen on a shingle roof. This can block proper airflow through the attic and can lead to damp insulation and mold. It is also important to ensure that all attic intake vents are unobstructed and that there is adequate ventilation.

A professional shingle roof maintenance contractor will start with a visual examination of the entire roof, including the eaves, gutters and the roof itself. They will make note of any areas that aren’t in good shape and they will take pictures and keep a log. They will then clean the gutters and downspouts, ensuring they are free of leaves and debris, and then they will examine the roof penetrations like vents, chimneys and skylights.

Clean the Gutters

Keeping your gutters clean is a key roof maintenance tip that can save you a lot of money in the long run. Clogged gutters prevent rainwater from flowing properly away from the roof, which can cause water damage to shingles and sheathing, landscaping and the foundation of your home. It is recommended that you clean your gutters at least twice a year, in the spring and fall.

Gutter cleaning involves climbing a ladder and scooping debris out of the gutters by hand or with a gutter scoop. Make sure you use a ladder that is tall enough to allow you to comfortably reach all parts of your gutter system. It is also important to work on a clear, dry day in order to prevent injury from falling debris. If possible, it is a good idea to hire a professional for this task.

In addition to removing shingle debris and other large items, it is also important to check the downspouts for proper flow of water. Inspect the hangers that hold the gutters in place for damage, and replace any that are sagging or loose. It is also a good idea to inspect the gutter system for signs of corrosion, such as rust spots on the downspouts or gutter covers.

If a problem is found, the rusted area should be scraped down, primed and painted. It is a good idea to do this regularly, particularly in high rainfall areas. Lastly, it is a good idea to check the seals around any skylights or vents on the roof to ensure that they are in good working condition.

It is also important to trim tree branches that are too close to your roof, as they can become a tripping hazard during storms and can contribute to ice damming during the winter. Finally, it is a good idea to regularly clean the roof, preferably with a pressure washer, in order to keep algae and moss at bay. This will help your shingles last longer and reduce the need for expensive repairs down the road. A clean, well-maintained roof can be a source of pride for any homeowner.

Check the Flashing

During a routine maintenance visit, a roofer should check the flashing, which is a thin layer of waterproof material that prevents moisture from entering a home or other building through gaps between the roof and wall or ceiling. Flashing is located at exterior windows, doors, and any projections on the roof like a chimney or skylight. Flashing should be securely nailed down and caulked to protect against water leaks.

Leaking seams are usually caused by corrosion or age, and can be easily repaired using roofing cement. It’s also a good idea to check for loose or missing caulk around any penetrations such as vents or chimneys, which are common locations for water leaks. Chimneys should be cleaned regularly to remove a soot-like substance called creosote that can block the vent, and roof flashing should be inspected for cracks and other damage.

Another item that should be checked is the condition of the shingles. The presence of blisters, which are small bubble-like raised areas, indicates the existence of moisture trapped between shingle layers. Moisture can cause a buildup of grit, which in turn leads to deterioration of the shingle surface and allows moisture into the attic. Dark streaks and stains on the shingles are caused by blue-green algae that can also cause shingle degradation, and should be removed as soon as they appear.

Visual inspection of the roof is an important part of the roof maintenance process, and should be done at least twice per year, especially following any stormy weather events. This will allow any problems to be caught and dealt with before they worsen. In addition, it’s a good idea to check the interior of the building for signs of water intrusion, such as discoloration on the ceilings.

Other maintenance items include cleaning drains and gutters to make sure they’re free of debris, and trimming tree limbs that hang over the roof, which can break during high winds and cause a variety of damage. Keeping up with these items can reduce the amount of time that will be required to complete regular maintenance, as well as save money on emergency repair costs.

Check the Siding

When it comes to your roof, siding and gutters, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way in prolonging their life. During inspections, professional roofers can identify minor problems and address them before they turn into major issues that cost you time and money.

The best place to start is by doing a visual walkaround of your building and carefully looking at the exterior of your roof, siding, and gutters. You will want to look for any holes, dents or areas that have taken on a darker hue as these could indicate the presence of moisture damage, mold and mildew. You will also want to inspect your gutter system for clogs or any other signs of damage.

Another important area to focus on is any enclaves, valleys or other areas where the roof meets a wall. These can be prime entry points for unwelcome creatures, which is why it is so important to keep these areas as clean and free of debris as possible.

During your inspection, make sure that any large accessories such as chimneys and skylights are properly sealed. Chimneys should be cleaned regularly to remove the soot-like substance called creosote, which can cause rust and corrosion on your roof materials. You will also want to check for any holes or dents around these areas, which can allow rainwater to leak into your home or building.

It is a good idea to look over any pipes or equipment supports during your inspection as well. Look for cracks at the base of these support structures, sagging pipes, deflected hangers and any other alarming signs that the supports are starting to fail.

Finally, you will want to pay special attention to any areas that are exposed to sunlight or wind, such as open valleys or overhangs. These areas can be susceptible to damage from hail, falling tree limbs or high winds. It is a good idea to keep these areas as clean as possible by using a ladder and power washer to wash off any dirt, moss or mildew.