A well-maintained roof prevents water damage, saving homeowners money on energy bills. Regular maintenance also helps extend the lifespan of roofing materials. Contact Corpus Christi Roofing CO for professional help.
Gutter cleaning is a must-do task, as is examining roof flashing (the material installed around chimneys and where roof planes meet). Observe tree limbs and look for signs of stress like bareness or withered branches that could fall during stormy weather.
It is important to check indoors for signs of roof damage. This includes mold, mildew, water stains and peeling paint. The interior of a building also needs to be checked for leaks in the attic or upper floors. It is also a good idea to check beams and trusses for signs of structural stress such as rust, rot or cracking. Leaks that go unnoticed and are allowed to continue for a long period of time will eventually cause significant structural damage to the building.
During a visual inspection of the roof it is essential to note areas of the shingle field that are loose or have been torn off. These should be repaired immediately to prevent leaking and further damage to the roofing system. It is also a good idea to look for moss, lichen and piles of dirt that hold moisture against the shingle surface.
Other areas that should be looked at are the valleys between roof planes and around skylights, chimneys, vents and equipment curbs. These are areas where leaks are common if not properly sealed with roofing cement or caulking. It is important to make sure the attic is well ventilated to avoid excessive heat in summer and moisture buildup in winter.
Plumbing vent boots should be inspected for cracked bases or broken seams. If a boot is torn away or rotted away it will allow water to seep into the house and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Another item to look for is what is referred to as “shiners.” This happens when moisture from the rooms below seeps into the cold attic during the night and freezes on the framing nails. This causes the nails to swell, which can cause a nail hole in the shingle above it. This is an easy fix by simply clipping the nail with a pair of pliers.
Check the Flashings
Flashing is a very important part of a roof. It’s designed to tie together elements of your architecture, eliminating a seam that could otherwise cause leakage and rot. Roof flashing is particularly important in areas like valleys, chimney structures and areas where your roof meets a vertical surface such as a wall or dormer. Because of this, it’s very important that flashing is installed correctly and that you inspect it regularly for signs of damage.
The most obvious sign of a problem with your roof flashing is visible damage around roof features such as chimneys, vents and skylights. If you notice cracks, rust or breaks in the flashing around these areas of your home, it’s time to call in a roofing contractor to check and repair the damaged flashing.
Another thing to watch for is water staining and moisture intrusion in your attic or walls. If you see water spots or stains on the ceiling or walls, it may be because the flashing is failing and allowing rain to penetrate your insulation and wood framing.
Finally, strong storms can lift or damage flashing, compromising its ability to safeguard your home from water penetration. It’s essential that you look for this type of damage after a serious storm and call in a professional to assess the problem.
Generally, you will need to use a ladder or other method to safely access your roof in order to check the flashing. It’s important that you have a sturdy ladder and that it’s large enough to reach your flashing. In addition, if you’re not comfortable climbing up on the roof, it’s best to hire a professional to perform the inspection.
Check the Drains
When inspecting the exterior of your roof, look for moss, mold, watermarks and rust on the gutters, eaves and flashings. If you notice any of these, they will need repair immediately.
Also, it’s important to check the interior of your building for signs of water damage. Look for mold, mildew, water stains and peeling paint. This is especially important in areas that have heavy snow loads. It’s also a good idea to check beams and trusses for cracking, rust or rot.
Inspect any elements that penetrate your roofing system, such as skylights, vents, chimneys and pipes. Also, check the seals around these penetrations for gaps and leaks. If these have been repaired before, make sure the previous repairs are recorded in your maintenance schedule. Also, be sure to check that any supports for pipe and equipment are not sagging, or showing signs of deflecting from their hangers. This can cause serious damage to the roof membrane.
Check the Sealant
A professional inspection can catch issues with the caulking, roof shingles, and flashing. These repairs are often inexpensive and can prevent large problems down the road. Look for cracking, openings, deterioration, or crazing. These signs indicate that the sealant was not properly applied or is no longer working.
If your roof is covered with a single-ply or membrane roof, the inspector will check for punctures, tears, and signs of aging. These can all lead to leaks and should be addressed promptly. If your roof has drains, the inspector will make sure they are free of clogs and working correctly. They will also inspect the gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and cause damage to the roof and fascia.
The inspection should also include a look at the perimeter of the roof to ensure that the flashing and expansion joints are well-sealed. This step is important for both flat and low-sloped roofs to keep moisture out of the home. It is also a good time to examine the chimney, skylights, and other penetrations for signs of water intrusion.
A thorough maintenance plan should also address tree branches that are too close to the house and need trimming. This can protect the home from limbs that could break in heavy storms. It can also prevent the accumulation of debris that could lead to roof damage.
A regular maintenance program can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs and increase the lifespan of your roof. Contact Roofing today to schedule your annual roof maintenance program. We offer a comprehensive service that includes quarterly inspections, cleaning, and repairs. This is the best way to get small problems fixed before they become major headaches and expensive repairs. Our maintenance program can be customized for any type of roof and is a great option for homeowners and commercial property owners alike. We are committed to providing our customers with the best roofing maintenance in the area and offer a competitive price to fit any budget.