A roof is the part of a home that experiences the most tests from mother nature. It protects you, your family, and property from falling debris, animals, bugs, and even trees. Though roofs are built to last very long, proper maintenance can increase their longevity.
Monitoring your roof and managing the alerts can save you from costly renovations. Trimming the trees around your house and cleaning debris off your roof are some ways properly to maintain your roof.
However, roof repairs and replacements require experts. I would recommend contacting the roofing contractors ABC Contracting, for excellent roofing services.
Damaged shingles
Damaged shingles can cause leakage into your home. Once the shingles show signs of wear, it’s time to get them repaired or replaced.
Check your flashing
Roof flashing is the material used to seal and direct water away from roofs. Always pay attention to your flashing whenever you're inspecting your roof. Make sure there aren't any cracks on the flashing, and the metal is free of rust.
If there are any faults on the flashing, contact your roofing experts, or you risk water leakage from your roof.
Snow damage
Heavy snow can extensively damage your roof, possibly even cause a collapse. Don't let snow pile on your rooftop during the winter. You can use a snow rake to remove snow from your roof during winter gently.
Check the insulation
Proper ventilation and insulation in your attic can help keep your roof in quality condition. Good insulation reduces moisture and prevents the formation of ice dams.
Trim the trees around your house
Trees add to the beauty around your home, no doubt. But tall and overly branched trees pose a significant danger to your roof on a windy or stormy day. To stay safe, trim large branches that crowd your roof.
Remember, in case of an accident, the trees can not only damage your roof and home but could harm your family as well.
If necessary, re-caulk
Your roof installers may have used a low-grade caulk during the first installation. Maybe the caulking has been exposed to the harsh Indianapolis weather. Whichever the case, the caulking is likely to be worn and may begin to leak.
Please do not wait until it leaks to take caution. Monitor the caulk quality and get it redone if necessary. Call an expert for a satisfactory caulking job.
Clean the roof
Cleaning roofs may not be typical. Even so, it should be done every once in a while to keep debris away. Not only do foreign objects give your roof an unsightly appearance, but they also impact the quality of your roof.
Moss and algae could also grow on your roof if it's left dirty for too long. The pair won’t necessarily damage your roof, but they certainly aren't impressive to look at.
To get the moss or algae off your roof, mix bleach and water on 50:50 ratios. Next, spray the top with the mixture and let it sit for about 20 minutes. After the time has elapsed, rinse everything off with a low-pressure garden hose.
What You Should do if You Detect Roof Damage
Naturally, the best thing to do if you detect damage or a leak in your roof is to call a professional, but in the event that you aren’t able to have someone come out to your house immediately, there are some things that you can do to mitigate the damage.
One of the biggest issues with a damaged roof is moisture in the attic. Moisture can lead to additional damage in the form of mildew, dry rot, and interior ceiling staining, leaks, or erosion. If you have access to a tarp and you can locate the point of damage on the roof, you can cover the leak with the tarp, securing it with short nails or tacks. This will keep rain from pouring directly into the hole. If your roof is snow-covered, clear the area of the leak, before laying your tarp. Use caution whenever climbing on any roof and have someone accompany you in the event of an emergency.
If your attic is accessible and you can safely enter it, check the interior for signs of water damage or light shining in. Sop up any excess water with a towel. You can use a fan or blowdryer to remove further moisture. Keep electrical wires away from the point of moisture. Moisture removers are available at most grocery stores and drug stores. You can place one in your attic to help with the excess water.
If the water has leaked through your ceiling, put a pot underneath the drip to keep it from damaging your floor. Move any furniture out from under the leak.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in increasing your roof's longevity. Even so, maintenance alone may not protect your entire roof from damage. For damages that require repairs or replacements, don’t hesitate to call your roofing expert.
