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Even when you haven’t had your roof replaced before, you may have an idea as to how significant the investment can be. As such, you may be inclined to avoid the project as much as you can, putting effort instead toward preventing roof damage. Fortunately, there are precautions you can take to do just that. In this ebook, we’ll go over three precautions you should take as a homeowner, each one designed to make the most of your existing roof and safeguard your home. If you haven’t had your roof replaced before, it’s best that you know how significant the investment can be.
PART 1: CHANGING WINDOW STYLE AND SIZE
Complete roof failures usually start from small problems, such as leaks. Roof leaks are worrisome because it’s possible to not even realize you have a problem until it’s too late. This gives moisture enough time to seep through your roofing system, weakening the structure to not just let through water, but also pose a safety risk for you and your family. WHERE TO BEGIN The first step in finding a roof leak is to begin with the obvious signs: water spots or stains on your ceiling. Look for these to determine if moisture has entered your roofing system. If it’s raining, dripping water can also help you know that you have a leak, but not necessarily the source of the problem as water can travel some ways from its point of entry.
Next, make your way to your attic, if you have one. Check the floor and insulation for signs of water damage. If you have an exposed roof structure, take the time to check it as well for signs of moisture exposure. Time to go up your roof? Stop right there! For your safety, leave checking your roofing system from the outside to professionals who have the right tools and equipment for the job. You can inspect your roof from the ground with a pair of binoculars. If you spot missing or damaged roofing material, this means your roofing system has been compromised, increasing the likelihood of a leak being present.
PART 1: CHANGING WINDOW STYLE AND SIZE
DEALING WITH ROOF LEAKS If you do identify signs of a leak, keep in mind that the actual leak itself may not be directly above or even nearby. Again, water will usually travel down from a leak source before causing an obvious sign of a leak. Regardless, suspecting you have a leak means it’s time to call in a contractor to have your roof inspected thoroughly.
A complete inspection is necessary because it gives you an idea of your roof’s current condition, identifying other issues beyond the leak you’re worried about. Depending on weather conditions and your roof’s current status, a roofer may recommend temporary repairs first to stem further damage and protect your home’s interior. Then, once the weather clears, they can resume working on more permanent solutions for your roof. ooooo
In the next post, we’ll take a look at the importance of roof maintenance and the role it plays in keeping your roofing system safe and sound. Stay tuned!
PART 2: SCHEDULING ROOF MAINTENANCE
It cannot be stressed enough how important maintaining your roof is. Though it may be easy to contact a roofer once problems arise, prevention is still always better than cure. After all, roof repairs and replacement can be costly and inconvenient. If you want to spare yourself then from these, you’d do well to consider the following: 1. Perform regular visual inspections – The first preventive maintenance action you can take is to perform a regular visual inspection from the ground. Check for any missing shingles and other obvious damage to the roofing materials, and check the ground as well for roofing material that may have been torn off by high winds. 2. Schedule professional inspections semi-annually - Roofing contractors know what to look for exactly so it’s critical to have them take a look at your roof at twice a year. Inspections are best scheduled in spring to address issues that may have arisen because of the harsh winter and in the fall to prepare for the upcoming cold months.
3. Call your roofer directly after severe weather hits – On top of scheduling semi-annual roof checks, you should call your roofer for an inspection each time severe weather hits your area to identify potential issues right away.
PART 2: SCHEDULING ROOF MAINTENANCE
4. Keep your roof clear of debris - The best way to ensure that roof is well-maintained is to clear any debris, such as twigs, branches or leaves from your roof and the gutters. Bad weather can do a number on your roof, but debris can exacerbate problems, leaving you with a bigger issue than usual.
If you have a tree located right beside your home, for instance, and its branches and leaves are touching the roof or are directly over it, it would be best to remove the tree. Not only would you be protecting the roof, but you’ll also be protecting the home in the event of a major storm. Storms can uproot your tree and cause it to crash onto the home causing major damage. But if the tree is of extreme value, consult a professional arborist for a viable solution that will not require cutting the tree down. ooooo
In the next post, you’ll learn about the important aspects of a roof and what each can do to secure your investment. Stay tuned!
PART 3: THE MAKINGS OF THE PERFECT ROOFING SYSTEM
The roof is a complete system that can only be built when the right aspects are put together. However, we’re not just talking about tangible things here! In this post, let’s take a closer look at the importance of quality materials and installation in making the most of your roofing system and why you should hire the right contractor. MATERIALS There are a number of roofing materials available on today’s market, each one offering advantages and disadvantages of their own. Below is a brief description of the most common types of roofing materials available to you today: • Asphalt Shingles - The most popular choice across the United States, asphalt shingles hold up well against fire and wind, and are the most affordable roofing option. • Slate Roofing - Known for its beauty and durability, slate roofing can easily last 100 years or even more. • Wood Shingles and Shakes - Wood roofing is best if you want a rustic, cottage feel. Wood shingles and shakes made from cedar are the most durable. • Metal Roofing - This type of roofing is becoming increasingly popular because of its durability and energy efficiency.
PART 3: THE MAKINGS OF THE PERFECT ROOFING SYSTEM
• Tile Roofing - Coined as the most environment-friendly roofing choice, tile can last a lifetime, made from either clay or concrete, and best for properties in hot climates. Your choice of roofing material can determine how long your roof will last and how well can it withstand damage factors, such as weather, so make sure you consult a professional roofer for recommendations.
INSTALLATION Roofing installation is an exact process. Different systems may require different methods, but it remains that required steps have to be taken to guarantee quality installation. Additionally, certain aspects have to be addressed to ensure proper installation, such as: • The slope recommended for the chosen roofing system or material • The type of roof decking and underlayment recommended for the roofing system or material • The type of fasteners to be used • Flashing, valleys and gutter systems If a contractor misses any of these important aspects, excellent roof performance may not be achieved, even leading to premature deterioration or degradation.
PART 3: THE MAKINGS OF THE PERFECT ROOFING SYSTEM
CONTRACTOR The importance of proper roof installation cannot be stressed enough, and the only way to ensure it is by working with the right roofer. From inspection to replacement, you should make sure that you hire a roofer that has the following:
• Necessary permits and licenses • Local office address and contact numbers • Years of experience • Manufacturer certifications • ndustry accreditations and affiliations • List of references • Workmans’ compensation and liability insurance • Warranties and guarantees ooooo
Preventing roof damage is a task a lot of homeowners can get behind because it’s an effective way to protect your property. It may require a bit of effort, but it’s effort you’ll realize was well-spent after making the most of your roof’s service life. To learn more about preventing roof damage, don’t hesitate to consult a trusted roofer in your area.
Krech Exteriors 5866 Blackshire Path, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 (651) 968-8888 www.krechexteriors.com