Not all roofs hold the capacity to last for several years. A durable roof is made up of quality materials and professional craftsmanship that can help you avoid expensive repairs in the long run. However, you also have an essential role to play in maintaining your roof.
You might not have invested in the most expensive material when setting up that roof. Yet, that doesn’t mean you give up all hope. To avoid expensive repairs, you can follow a few simple tips to keep your roof clean, ventilated, and insulated, ultimately protecting its life.
Tip #1: The Guttering System
Take care of that guttering system and keep it clean. This isn’t just to ensure your roof looks good. It can save your home from falling victim to serious water damage.
If you live in an area that frequently experiences rainfall or if your house is situated near trees, you may frequently find waste gathering in the guttering system on your roof. This could damage the gutter and cause water leakage and seepage in your home.
The best maintenance tip is to set a specific time of the week when you clear away any debris and waste caught in the gutter, especially during autumn as that is when leaves and other debris tend to fall onto your gutter the most.
Tip #2: Steer Clear of Mold
If your roof is exposed to the elements more often than not, and also lies in the shade for a large part of the day, it may store water after a rain spell. Stagnant water often leads to mold growing on the roof. This can eat away at the surface which causes your roof to lose structure before it is supposed to.
The best way to avoid this is to invest in frequent inspections. Watch out for warning signs such as leakages inside the home or a musty odor.
Tip #3: Professionals Know Best
Professional roof inspections are something you don’t want to avoid if you want your roof to remain in top condition. Although most homeowners believe professional inspections increase the cost of maintenance, they actually reduce this cost over time.
If you get your roof inspected regularly you can avoid much bigger and more expensive repairs down the line. You get to nip small roof issues in the bud. You can repair the damage and protect the future structure of your roof through professional advice. In some cases, regular inspection can save you from the disastrous consequences of roof damage, such as having to replace the entire roof!
Tip #4: Keeping an Eye Out for Warning Signs
You don’t need a sign from the heavens to know it is time to repair your roof, but you surely need a sign from that roof! All you need to do is look to the heavens to notice certain issues that may scream HELP when it comes to your roof!
- Curled, cracked, or missing shingles indicate that the shingles on your roof are nearing the end of their lifeline. This calls for a roof replacement.
- Dirty, moisture-logged shingles require a professional analysis. If your shingles remain wet, that means they aren’t doing what they are supposed to do; keep moisture away.
- Small granules that look like black sand caught in your gutters are actually broken shingle granules; a common warning sign that your roof needs replacement.
- Blistering paint near the roofline can indicate a failing gutter system.
- Stained walls on the inside of your home mean your roof is allowing moisture to seep in which calls for a roof replacement.
- Higher energy bills can also be an alarming sign and should point to the fact that your roof isn’t insulating your home the way it is supposed to.
Recognize these warning signs and know when to call a professional to get that roof checked before the damage becomes irreversible.
Tip #5: Check Roof Structural Supports
The structural supports that hold your roof up are just as important as the roof itself. As a homeowner, you must inspect these yearly to ensure they aren’t rotting away.
- Look for pests or decay by probing the wood underneath with a screwdriver. Timber that crumbles or seems spongy needs replacement.
- Inspect the roof for any cracks and splits in the rafter which could indicate the roof splitting away from the framing.
- Look for water damage by checking for discolored wood or sagging ceilings.
Your Roof Requires the Best Care
Regular inspections and consistent maintenance can extend the lifespan of your roof. If you are investing in roofing systems for a commercial business, it is even more important to rely on a professional who knows just what they are doing.
The better care you take of your roof the longer it will last and keep contributing to your business. Rely on a professional commercial roofer to get the job done! You won’t regret it!
