...

Don’t Get Caught in the Storm

If your roof is older than 15 years you might want to consider having a professional inspection done. Doing this can inform you of the condition of your roof and any potential concerns. A lot of times, repairs may be done to prolong the life of your roof. Harsh winds and weather can severely damage your existing roof if it is not properly cared for. Loose shingles can blow off in high winds, improperly secured and sealed flashings can cause leaks and poorly fastened or clogged gutters can fall off under the weight of snow.

 

Most homeowners tend to take their roof for granted. As long as it’s not leaking, we don’t really think about it, but there are things you can do to prevent potential problems. Some things you can do yourself, others you may want to have a licensed professional look at.

 

Blowing off your roof and cleaning out your gutters and downspouts is one thing most homeowners can take care of themselves. Debris built up in roof valleys can cause water to build up and flow in ways it normally wouldn’t, allowing it to cause a leak. This can also be the case around flashings, chimneys, or other roof penetrations. If your downspouts are clogged or your gutters are full of debris, the additional weight from rain or snow can cause them to pull away from the house or fall off completely.

 

One thing a roofing professional would look for is properly flashed and sealed roof penetrations. Over time, the caulking in these areas can begin to deteriorate, even the smallest crack in the caulking can cause a leak. Sometimes the flashings themselves can fail. Another thing a roofing professional would look at is the condition of your roof material. A lot of times, minor repairs are all you need but if you need a new roof, its better to find this out sooner rather than later. Procrastination can lead to leaks, which can lead to damage to your roof sheathing and the interior of your home. Preventative maintenance can save you money.

 

Be proactive; have a professional evaluation done to determine the condition of your roof and save yourself stress and money.