|
Summer is time for relaxation, but don’t ignore roof maintenance during this season. Many homeowners think of winter as being the rough season for their roofs, and often they are correct. The weight of piled-up snow, the danger of ice dams and the worry that your shingles might not make it through to spring are all real concerns. But summer is not all a time for kicking back and forgetting about your roof. Read on to learn about some important summer maintenance tips for your roof. Check for storm damage: Summer is a time of unpredictable weather. Severe storms can blow up out of nowhere, bringing with them wind, rain, hail and more. After any storm, especially ones with winds 40 mph or over, do a visual inspection of your roof, using binoculars if necessary. Do you see any missing shingles, broken branches or other debris that could be considered harmful? If so, contact a licensed roofing contractor to inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs. Inside and Out Look on the inside: Yes, you can inspect your attic for roof damage, looking for unexpected spots of daylight or signs of moisture, but don’t forget to look at your ceilings, too. Water spots or signs of mold or mildew signal a roof that’s letting in rainwater. These spots are less apparent in the winter, when water tends to collect on the roof in the form of snow or ice, but often a torrent is unleashed come spring thaw. Stay off your roof: Climbing on a sloped roof is dangerous for anyone, even experienced roofers, so homeowners should never try it. Most people realize this, but that doesn’t stop them from going out on their flat roof. It’s true, you are at less of a risk of a fall off of a flat roof, but your concern is less for yourself here than it is for the roof. Too many homeowners view the flat roof over their porch or garage as a bonus piece of real estate. They set up chairs and tables and eat dinner out there or bask in the sun. It’s not a good idea. Commercial roofs are built to be walked on, but residential ones are not. The roofing materials will not stand up to the repeated weight of people and furniture, and will break down much more quickly. Don’t Forget the Gutters Inspect your gutters: Gutters are not always thought of as part of your roof, but without them, your home would not last long. Gutters are attached to your roof and perform the critical function of carrying rainwater and melting snow away from your home by collecting it and funneling it through downspouts and their extensions. Periodically check your gutters and downspouts for sagging, separation, cracking or other signs of deterioration. If you see any damage, call a licensed roofing contractor to repair it, and employ the services of a contractor specializing in gutter cleaning to remove any dangerous, unwanted material from your roof and gutters, and to keep them clean and free-flowing. Always have your gutters cleaned before the start of winter — clogged gutters can lead to ice dam formation, moisture retention, eventual wood rot and even flooding, in some circumstances. Your roof protects your home and whoever lives in it, so remember to treat it with loving care, and have it regularly inspected by a reputable roofing company.
Related Articles -
roofer, roofing repair, Roofing contractors, leaking roof repairs, residential roofing company, gutter repair, gutter installment, gutters,
|
