During roofing maintenance, professionals address problems before they become bigger issues. Addressing roof issues before they develop helps reduce energy costs and protects the building and its contents. Contact MT Roofing for professional help.
For example, if caulking around chimneys, vent pipes and skylights is loose, water can leak into the home. Maintenance ensures this caulk is tight and in good condition.
The shingles on your roof are the first thing you should check regularly for signs of damage. The lifespan of a shingle roof can be extended significantly with regular inspection and maintenance.
A simple visual inspection twice per year is usually enough to catch problems before they become severe. When doing this, look for shingle strips that are missing altogether, or curled up, cracked, or otherwise damaged. Missing shingles can allow water to get underneath and cause leaks, while curled or cracked shingles can be easily lifted in high winds.
Other important items to keep an eye out for include shingles that are blistering or have lost their protective granules. Blistering shingles are not only unsightly but also indicate that the underlying materials are starting to degrade. Also, if you see any dark stains on the ceiling or walls, it is likely that a roof leak has occurred. If left unaddressed, this can lead to extensive water damage and a shortened lifespan for your shingles.
During these inspections, it is recommended to also pay attention to any tree branches that are overhanging your roof. These branches can fall on your roof in severe weather, which will shorten the life of the shingles. It is also a good idea to check any areas around chimneys, dormers, skylights, and other roof penetrations for any signs of metal flashing that has been deformed or pulled away from the shingle surfaces.
If you notice any of these issues, they will need to be addressed immediately. If you are not comfortable climbing a ladder, a professional inspector should perform a thorough inspection of your shingle roof to ensure that any potential problems are caught and addressed in a timely manner.
If you’re selling or buying a home, a pre-purchase roof inspection is a must. This will help you understand and identify any shingle roofing issues that need to be addressed before the closing date. This will provide peace of mind for the new homeowners, as well as help you negotiate a fair price on the property. With the proper care and regular inspections, a shingle roof can last for 20-30 years or more.
Inspect the Flashing
Generally, roof flashing is located around any penetrations such as chimneys and skylights. These are especially susceptible to damage from high winds and should be inspected regularly. Also inspect the area around these penetrations to ensure that there is no cracking or deterioration of the flashing or the sealant that holds it in place. In addition, roof valleys and joints should be checked for proper alignment, water flow, and any obstructions.
If you notice any cracks, loosening, or signs of leaking, you can repair the flashing with roofing cement or caulking. However, more extensive or significant flashing damage may require the help of a professional roofer for repairs.
Before starting your roof inspection, make sure you have a safe ladder and an extension cord to reach the rooftop. You can also use binoculars or a window, but it’s best to get up there yourself if possible. Start by removing any debris or rust from the damaged area and making sure it is clean and dry. Using a putty knife, apply a small bead of caulk or roofing cement to fill any gaps, cracks, or tears in the flashing. Make sure the caulk or cement is smoothed over the flashing for a watertight seal.
If you find any holes or rust in the flashing, it’s a good idea to replace it. If you’re replacing the flashing, make sure you use a high-quality product that will withstand the elements. A professional roofer can recommend the right products to fit your needs and budget.
It’s also a good idea to perform a roof maintenance routine on an annual basis. This will catch problems before they turn into more serious issues and help you to extend the lifespan of your roof. Taking the time to inspect your roof regularly will save you money, stress, and inconvenience in the future.
Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters are a common source of roof leaks and other damage. Gutters can become so full that they cause water to back up under the shingles and into the sheathing and interior of the home. To prevent this, homeowners should clean their gutters regularly. This includes cleaning out downspouts, ensuring they are not clogged, and checking for signs of leaks or damage to the gutters themselves.
Gutter cleaning can be time consuming, especially for homes with a lot of trees in the yard. The best time to do a gutter cleaning is in the fall or spring. This will help to prevent winter ice dams and early spring frost that can crack and chip the gutters. It is also a good time to check for any signs of sagging or wear and tear.
To safely clean the gutters, it is a good idea to hire a professional. Many roofing companies offer a gutter cleaning service as part of their maintenance program. This will ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently. The company will also have the necessary safety equipment, including a harness and rope. The company may also be able to provide ladder stabilizers that can be attached to the ladder to reduce the risk of tipping.
The gutter cleaning crew should inspect the ground before starting to make sure it is not too muddy or frozen. They should also be aware of any sagging or damage that might require repair before cleaning the gutters. The crew should also take the opportunity to clean other areas of the property that are in need of attention, such as the driveway, walkways and siding.
Getting the gutters cleaned can prevent a number of problems, including rotting fascia boards, damage to windows, walls and ceilings, and toxic mould that can spread throughout the house. It can also prevent water damage that can lead to flooded basements and foundation issues. A regular gutter cleaning schedule will also help to prevent moss growth, which can trap moisture in the gutters, causing them to sag and leak.
Inspect the Interior
Your home’s roof is the barrier that protects you and your loved ones from all of the elements, including weather events, falling debris and excess moisture. It also helps to keep your family warm and energy-efficient. To ensure your roof is doing its job, it’s important to regularly inspect it for damage and wear. A qualified inspector can spot potential problems before they become a major problem and save you from more costly repairs down the road.
A standard roofing inspection includes a visual assessment of the shingles, flashing, decking, and other structural features of the roof. An inspector will look for signs of moisture, sagging, rot and other problems. In addition, the inspector will evaluate the condition of the interior attic and ceiling for any water stains or evidence of leaks.
The inspector will also check the condition of the flashing, which are strips of metal that divert rainwater away from the joint where a wall extends through the roof. Building codes require proper flashing installation to prevent water intrusion and mold. The inspector will look for rust or cracks in the thin flashing and will also inspect the penetrations themselves (skylights, chimneys, vent pipes, etc.) for the same reasons.
Other structural factors that a roof inspector will look at include the wooden decking and frame of the roof, which are critical for support and insulation. The inspector will observe the rafters and joists to make sure they’re strong, intact and free of any rot or decay. The inspector will also check for ridge and soffit vents, which are necessary for a well-functioning roof ventilation system with balanced air flow.
During the inspection, the inspector will not do anything that may be unsafe or hazardous to himself or others. This includes walking on roof areas that appear to be damaged or in need of repair, climbing ladders and entering attic spaces. The inspector will also not walk on any roof areas that appear, in his or her opinion, to be slippery.