Just like you need to visit the dentist when you notice a problem, you also need to perform regular roofing maintenance. Not doing so can lead to serious problems and expensive repair bills.
Check for accumulated debris, which may block drains and cause roofing surfaces to rot prematurely. Look for broken shingles, and check on pipes, skylights, and equipment for sagging or other damage.
Roof flashing is sheet metal components sealing the seams where different planes of your roof meet and where various penetrations, like chimneys, vent pipes and skylights, are installed. These structures are usually constructed from durable galvanized steel and other corrosion-resistant materials, and when properly installed and maintained, they form a watertight barrier to keep rain out of your home. However, exposure to the elements over time takes its toll on even the best of flashing. This means that a regular maintenance schedule is necessary to ensure your roof flashing is able to protect your house.
Flashing is usually located around the most vulnerable areas of a roof, such as in the corners and at all points where different parts of your roof come together, including dormers and chimneys. This means that a roof inspection should also include close inspection of the flashing. A trained eye can spot any issues that might be developing and allow you to take corrective action.
A common issue that can occur with flashing is that it becomes loose or even removed from the home over time. This often occurs when the screws that anchor it into place become loose, or when the metal wears away. This can expose your home to leaks and moisture intrusion.
To prevent this, make a point of checking the flashing at least once a year to look for signs of damage and wear. You should also regularly clean the area by removing any dirt or debris that has accumulated, and reseal the joints with caulking or roof cement as needed.
Another way to maintain your roof flashing is to trim back overhanging tree branches that might rub against or damage it. This is an easy and inexpensive fix that will keep your roof and flashing in good condition.
It is essential that any problems with your flashing are addressed promptly to prevent water infiltration and the potential for costly repairs down the road. If you notice cracks or rust on the flashing, or if it appears to be missing, contact a professional roofing contractor to schedule repair services right away.
Clean the Gutters
Gutters play a critical role in your roof’s structural integrity, and should be kept clean to prevent water buildup. Gutter problems are often difficult and costly to fix, but they can be avoided with regular cleanings and inspections. A clogged gutter can lead to water leaks, and even damage your shingles. It can also encourage the growth of mold and mildew, and cause wood rot or soil erosion around your foundation.
If the thought of climbing a ladder to your roof to inspect and unclog your gutters sends you into a panic, you can hire a professional service to do it for you. Just be sure that they use a safe, sturdy ladder that can support your weight and have someone hold the bottom for added safety. They should also clear the area around their workspace before they begin working to ensure they don’t run into any obstacles. Once they’ve set up their work area, they can safely climb to the gutters and remove any blockages.
It’s important to check and clean the gutters at least once per year, more frequently if you have overhanging trees or after major storms. The most common cause of clogged gutters is leaves and debris, which can block the downspouts, causing water to flow over the top of the gutter channel and fall to the ground below. This water can erode soil around your foundation, and may leak into your home through windows or the basement.
Clogged gutters are also a breeding ground for pests and rodents. These critters enjoy the wet, dark environment that is created by a clogged gutter and may chew through fascia boards or downspouts. In addition, clogged gutters make it more likely that ice dams will form in the winter, since they can prevent melting snow from draining.
A yearly gutter maintenance program is an effective way to keep your roof in good condition. It involves removing leaves and debris, trimming overhanging branches, and checking the downspouts for obstructions. In addition, it includes a thorough inspection to look for signs of wear and tear that may require prompt repairs.
Trim Tree Branches
In order for your roof to perform well, it must be able to do its job without interference from overgrown branches and other growth. It is also important to remove dead or damaged limbs as soon as you notice them so they don’t spread or cause further damage. Additionally, pruning can help prevent disease, insect infestations and fungi from spreading.
When trimming a tree, there are two main types of cuts: thinning and heading. Thinner branches are cut to remove excessive growth that may be crowding out other limbs, reduce the risk of storm damage and improve air circulation throughout a canopy. Heading cuts remove the tip of a branch or a major limb that has not yet produced suckers to assume the terminal role. Both thinning and heading cuts should be made using the same technique to ensure that wounds are properly closed, helping prevent future problems like rot or insects.
To thin a branch, start by making a cut on the underside of the branch about a foot from where it intersects the trunk. This will prevent the branch from tearing as it falls. Next, make a cut on the top side of the branch about an inch farther away from the first cut. Finally, saw downward through the branch about halfway through to the end and then let it fall away. This will give the tree time to form a protective callus around the wound.
Avoid leaving stubs. These obstruct a tree’s natural defense system and can allow insects into the wound, leading to decay or rot. To get rid of a stub, first find the branch collar, a small area on the trunk where it joins the main stem. This will have a slight swelling and rougher bark than the rest of the trunk. Cut into the branch a couple inches away from the collar, just to the outside of it. This will keep the stub from rubbing against the wound, preventing the callus from closing it.
It’s best to leave the trimming of large or very high branches to professionals unless you are an experienced tree climber with appropriate safety equipment. It’s also a good idea to consult a certified arborist before starting any tree work. A certified arborist can identify any potential hazards and provide advice on how to safely proceed.
Inspect the Shingles
After you’ve inspected the flashing and cleaned the gutters, it’s time to get on your ladder and survey the shingles. This is one of the most important areas to inspect, especially following severe weather. Visible gaps or bare spots can let in rain and cause further damage to the interior of your home. You’ll also want to look for curled or buckled shingles, which should be replaced immediately. Curled shingles have the appearance of a newspaper roll, while buckling is when a shingle folds like a hamburger. Dark stains on the shingles aren’t necessarily a sign of a leak but can indicate the presence of moss, lichen, or blue-green algae, all of which should be removed promptly by a professional roofer.
When looking at the shingles, you should pay special attention to the valleys where two roof faces meet. Most of the water that travels off the roof will travel down these valleys, so they’re an important area to check during a visual inspection. We also recommend having a roofing expert look at any areas where shingles are exposed to direct sunlight or snowfall. Exposure to direct sunlight can accelerate aging and the formation of blisters. Snowfall can lead to ice damming, which may cause shingle damage and a possible leak.
Some shingle problems are easily spotted from the ground or with binoculars, but others require a closer inspection to spot. A good rule of thumb is to have a roofer check the roof every other year, but if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it’s recommended to have a professional come and inspect the roof more frequently.
A professional roofer can do a complete inspection of your shingle roof, including examining the flashings and vent pipes, for any problems. This helps ensure that the shingles are properly anchored and the roof is watertight. It also helps prevent small exterior issues from becoming large interior problems. Contact a reputable roofing contractor today to schedule your roof maintenance. They’ll provide you with a detailed list of recommendations and a free quote.