When your roof is in good condition, it’s best fit to serve its intended purpose. It’s easy to think of your roof as being able to take care of itself, but it is not invincible. Therefore, roof maintenance is crucial. You should keep your roof at its best by inspecting, repairing, and cleaning your roof frequently. Always remember
Inspect The Roof
Inspect the chimney, skylights, roof, and roof slope for debris, loose/ broken shingles, and holes from ground level periodically as well as after storms/ major weather events. Look on the ground for shingles and granules falling from the roof. Do not climb on top of the roof because you can damage shingles. Instead, from inside the home, you can check for holes, leaks, and discoloration on the ceiling as well as the attic. Listen for sounds on top of or inside the roof because they can be signs of animals living in the attic. Always check the top of the roof from ground level as well as your attic after a bad thunderstorm for fallen tree limbs and debris.
Cut Roof-Hanging Tree Branches
Trim any tree branches hanging over the roof. Tree branches and limbs can hit the roof, damaging shingles. Branches touching your roof can also serve as a pathway for various animals as well as insects to get into your home. Broken branches also contribute to algae and moss growth when they are left to sit on top of your roof.
Remove Roof Debris
Sticks, leaves, fruit, tree pollen, and other various things can collect on your roof over time. This debris can make it easier for moss and mold to grow on your roof. This weakens the integrity of your roof and makes it more susceptible to rotting and other damage. It is a good idea to climb a ladder and use a leaf blower or broom to move the debris to the ground.
Repair Ceiling Leaks
If you notice a leak in your ceiling, this can be a good indicator of the location in which your roof has been damaged. If the leak goes unnoticed for long enough it can cause severe damage to your roof. That is one of the reasons it’s important to inspect your roof periodically. The sooner small leaks are repaired the less money the repair will cost. Paying a little now prevents paying more in the future for extensive damage caused by a leak.
Clean Gutters
As you inspect the roof, check the gutter’s condition too. The gutter is critical in transferring roof water to the ground, but it cannot function if it clogs with leaves, branches, and debris. Using a ladder is an easy way to access the gutters for cleaning. A clean gutter also prevents roof damage due to sitting water/blockages contributing to rotting and other issues.
Repair Roof Issues
The same rule of thumb applies to exterior roof issues. Hiring a roofing professional to repair small issues such as loose or broken shingles can save you more money in the long run. An expert will notice small defects in your roof that may not initially stand out to the untrained eye. These small defects can cause future problems and a professional will know how to address them. Remember that roofing contractors in Lockhart TX can provide you an accurate opinion.
