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Have you checked your roof’s condition lately? Given how this essential component heads off extreme weather to keep your home damage-free, you need to make sure it’s always in tip-top shape. You can do this by taking proactive measures that help prolong its lifespan. This is actually easier than you might expect. We’re dedicating this three-part blog series to helping you get started. Before we get into maintenance, however, you need to understand your roof’s service life and the factors that can affect it. How long your roofing lasts and how well it performs will depend largely on the type of material it uses. Some materials may last longer because they are more durable. You’ll also need to take your area’s weather patterns into account as well, making sure your system can effectively withstand your local climate for longer-lasting performance. Most importantly, your roof requires long-term care and maintenance from a trusted contractor. Hiring someone who can deal with your system’s issues, regardless of material, is essential to your roof’s longevity. This ebook shares some ways to add to your roof’s service life, and how to choose the right contractor to solve its issues.
PART 1: WINDOW CONDENSATION - WHAT CAUSES IT?
The first step to a dry and damage-free home is keeping your roof in good shape, which in turn, prolongs its lifespan. This means catching the early signs of weather damage and taking advantage of appropriate solutions to remedy any problems you identify. You can do all these through a comprehensive roof inspection, which should be performed by a premier contractor. WHY HAVE YOUR ROOF THOROUGHLY INSPECTED? Simple--a regular roof checkup can prevent issues from worsening, which means less damage and fewer expenses. A thorough inspection, in fact, can even stop problems from forming in the first place, allowing for reliable weather protection and longer-lasting performance from your roofing system. WHAT SHOULD YOU WATCH FOR DURING A ROOF INSPECTION? Look for any hint of damage to your system, whether it’s been inflicted by hail, wind or sun. This is especially crucial following a major weather event when you should check roof protrusions, like plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys for broken seals. These are the more leak-prone areas of your system, which make it easy for rainwater to seep into your home and deal extensive damage. Check for standing water around skylights and examine vent stacks for wearing or tearing. They might require resealing and painting to keep them intact. Don’t forget to be mindful of your shingles-if you spot pieces on the ground, you’re looking at roofing material that’s no longer protecting your roof. Attic insulation and ventilation should be checked for damage, as well.
PART 1: MAXIMIZING YOUR ROOF’S SERVICE LIFE
WHY LEAVE ROOF INSPECTION TO A PRO? It might be tempting to do the inspection yourself, but the job is best left to experienced roofing contractors because they have the training and experience necessary to perform roof inspections safely and thoroughly. Because they can spot any hint of damage, there is less chance of overlooking problems. When turning to a roofing contractor for inspections and other related services, make sure they’re:
1. Licensed to perform this kind of work in your area. 2. Experienced in a variety of specializations, from roof inspection and repair, to replacement and maintenance. 3. Insured, with workers’ compensation and liability coverage, to protect you and your investment. 4. Certified so you can benefit from superior workmanship,highquality products and generous warranties.
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Stay tuned for Part 2 of this ebook, where we’ll be discussing how you can effectively deal with common roofing problems.
PART 2: HOW WINDOW CONDENSATION AFFECTS YOUR HOME
When your roof does sustain noticeable damage from the harsh elements, make sure to have it repaired promptly, even if they are as small like fledgling roof leak. Over time, they can worsen and leave your home vulnerable to extensive water damage. By dealing with these problems, you can ensure continued performance from your roofing. At the same time, you can avoid the stress and additional costs involved with premature roof failure and replacement. Here are three of the most common issues that can compromise your roof, and how you can deal with them: • Roof Leaks. Significant weather damage can cause roof leaks. Hail, for example, can crack and dent your roof’s surface upon impact, while high winds can loosen shingles until they tear right off. This creates openings that allow rainwater to drip into your home’s interior. Sometimes, the water may find its way into your walls and foundation, weakening the structure. Roof leaks, fortunately, can be easily remedied with a patching job from a reliable roofer. • Damaged Flashing. If your roof has torn or loose flashing, have it repaired immediately. These components cover the more vulnerable areas of your system. For example, the point where your chimney meets your roof allows for pooling water, which slowly wears away the seal until it creates a leak. When the seals have failed, have your roofer re-caulk the seams. The thin metal pieces serving as flashing should be repaired or replaced as necessary.
PART 2: DEALING WITH COMMON ROOF PROBLEMS
• Impact Damage. A particularly harsh storm can produce windblown debris, which may range from simple household items to large roofing materials and tree limbs. The latter can damage your roof on impact, creating dents and even leading to collapse on some areas of your roof. Before additional damage occurs, call your roofing contractor ASAP for speedy storm damage repair and restoration. This way, you’re sure your system can continue delivering the excellent weather performance you’ve come to expect. You’ll be extending its lifespan, as well, which is another win.
Like roof inspections, repairing your system will require an expert roofer. They can effectively restore your roof to its former condition, allowing for longer-lasting performance. ooooo
In Part 3 of this ebook, we’ll be taking a closer look at how a maintenance plan can keep your roofing system in top form.
GIVEN HOW WINDOWS CONTRIBUTE A HUG
One reliable way to extend to your roof’s lifespan is through maintenance. That’s why you should always keep this task on top of your must-do list. Roof maintenance keeps your roof in good health and this extends to the rest of your home. This means no water stains or streaks inside or out and less potential for flooding or leaks. Effective roof maintenance from a trusted contractor can ensure: • Continued Roof Performance. Make the most of your system’s life by investing in proper maintenance, helping prevent small roof problems from getting serious. Because of this, you won’t have to worry as much about leaks and their accompanying issues. Aside from continued weather performance, your roof will look lovely and intact, helping maintain your home’s curb appeal. • More Savings. You probably already know that an overlooked roof can lead to extensive damage. This doesn’t just compromise your home’s comfort and energy-efficiency--this results in costly repair and restoration work, as well. To avoid significant stress and expenses, make sure to keep regular roof maintenance in mind.
PART 3: GIVING YOUR ROOF THE BEST CARE
• Your Home’s Structure is Intact. A well-maintained roof keeps rainwater at bay, which means there’s less chance for leaks. Because water won’t find its way inside your walls and foundation, you can retain your home’s structural integrity for longer. WHAT DOES EFFECTIVE ROOF MAINTENANCE INVOLVE? Your roofer will start inspecting your home’s interior first. They’ll check for water damage, noting if there are streaks and stains along your walls and ceiling. This indicates a roof leak. They’ll then conduct a comprehensive checkup of your roof’s surface, from the roofing material and flashing, to fasteners and gutters. Dents, cracks, corrosion and buckling are just some of the warning signs they’ll look for. Once they’ve completed the inspection, they’ll then carry out the necessary repairs.
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Thorough inspection, prompt repair and regular maintenance--once you’ve committed to these strategies, getting the most out of your roof’s lifespan should be worry-free. To learn more about how you can make the most of your roofing system, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a reputable roofing contractor in your area today.
Kroll Construction 29017 Ford Rd., Garden City, MI 48135 (844) 688-9632 www.krollwindow.com