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Use these eight simple tips to take care of your roof and prevents problems from happening. Read on!
Our houses consist of various different parts, and each one of them has its own purpose. Definitely, one of the most important “pieces of the puzzle” is the roof.
A good house also requires a good roof, because it is protecting you from the rain, snow, wind, and other natural calamities that might happen.
But, as time passes, it will require some maintenance to be done. After all, you will need to recognize that something is not quite right with it and then act accordingly.
Here are some examples: exterior damages on the roof; droopy and saggy spots; daylight penetration; the roof tiles being loose; mortars falling, and so on.
What can we do to prevent this from happening? Well, here are some tips for you.
What's Inside
Trim Back Trees and Landscaping
Even if there are some branches and tree limbs near your house that might look nice in photos on your phone, it is best to clean them up and remove them all.
That is the perfect place for squirrels and all kinds of animals to settle down (don’t be surprised if they invade your home). When tree branches and other natural elements begin to grow near a house, cut them so that they are a few feet away so that you don’t have any problems with them in the event of a weather disaster.
You should also make sure shrubs and other landscaping provide enough space for gutters to properly drain water from the home and prevent damage to the foundation.
Regular Roof Inspections
One of the most important ways to maintain your roof is to perform regular inspections. Inspections can catch potential problems early before they become worse.
It is important to inspect all areas of the roof, including the eaves and valleys. If you are not confident in inspecting your roof, we recommend that you hire a professional.
When roofers recommend that you have roof installations repaired, it is better to listen to them and get it done as soon as possible. This will allow them to determine the full extent of the damage and whether the roof should be replaced.
Keep the Gutters Clean
Another important part of roof care is keeping your gutters clean. Clogged gutters allow water to collect on your roof, which can damage it over time.
Regularly remove debris from your gutters. You can use a garden hose to flush the gutters and remove any remaining debris.
So the gutters can do their job and keep the water away from the house. If you are unsure about cleaning your gutters, it may be wise to hire a professional.
This ensures they are clean and free of obstructions that could damage your roof.
Check for Cracked or Missing Shingles
Summer weather can be very bad for your roof. If the temperature is too high, the shingles can shrink or even crack.
Most roofs are built to last for years, but extreme weather conditions can be severe enough to damage the roof system. Occasionally, take a few minutes to inspect the roof and identify any areas that may have missing or damaged shingles.
Getting Rid of Ice Dams
Ice and snow put additional strain on your roof and, if left on for an extended period of time, can cause damage. It can also cause temperature changes that stress the roofing material, causing thermal shock.
A long scraper or road salt and water can be used to remove ice from roofs in cold weather. If the clumps are large, contact a professional removal service to prevent damage to your home.
Strong Insulation
Also, try to insulate the attic as much as possible. Good insulation prevents heat and moisture from damaging your roof. Using the correct type of insulation for your climate is critical to prolonging the life of your roof.
Look for Leaks in the Attic and Ceiling
A visual inspection of the outside of your roof can tell you a lot about the condition of your roof, but you may not be able to find leaks or seepage from the outside.
As part of your regular home maintenance, take a few minutes to inspect your ceilings, especially your attic, looking for signs of moisture or damage.
If you see signs of water damage, contact a professional roofer to inspect and fix the problem before serious damage occurs.
Repair Damaged Chimney
Most of us don’t pay much attention to the chimney on our roof. It is common for people to consider repairing chimneys in their homes.
A collapsed chimney can damage the mortar between the bricks. Therefore, it helps to regularly improve the seal between the chimney and roof covering.
While most homeowners maintain other parts of their homes, the roof is largely neglected. Over time, various roof-related problems develop, leading to leaks and breakdowns.
To eliminate this situation, develop a roof monitoring and inspection strategy. By following the tips above, you can extend the life of your roof.
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