Your roof is an important part of your home because it keeps you dry during spring storms and warm during the winter. Despite its importance, it is easy to neglect your roof. Many people only give importance to their roof when they see a big problem, such as a leak or storm damage, despite the fact that it has a life expectancy of 15 years or above.
Annual roof inspections, on the other hand, can enhance the life of your roof by up to a couple of years! Roof upkeep increases longevity and saves you money by avoiding the cost of a total replacement. Minor concerns like nail pops don't evolve into big concerns like mold and rot if they're treated properly.
Annual Inspection
While experts suggest scheduling a professional roof inspection annually to spot any issues early, you should check your roof much more frequently, and you don't even need to walk up a ladder to do so. Even a cursory examination with binoculars can reveal deterioration or other issues. Take out your binoculars the day after a big storm and look around the entire visible surface of your roof.
Look for burst nails and shingles that are loose, curling, or missing. If you have tiles, inspect them for any cracks or missing pieces. Look for any streaky spots that could indicate the presence of algae.
You might be able to manage the situation alone based on the problem and your roofing shingles, but if you can't, call a professional roofing contractor as quickly as possible to address the issue before it worsens.
Popped nails
Damaged shingles and nails intruding through the shingles are two frequent concerns found on asphalt shingle roofs. Leaks are common as a result of these issues, and correcting them necessitates removing the damaged shingles and exposed nails. To mend them, pry up the shingles around the borders to get to any nails which haven't pushed through yet so you may remove them. Remove the shingles, use roofing cement to fill in the existing nail holes, then substitute the old shingles with fresh ones. Any new nails should be placed an inch apart from the old ones, and all visible nail heads should be sealed with roofing cement.
Clear leaves and debris
The other Do it yourself roof maintenance activity is to clear off the twigs, leaves, and other trash that has accumulated on the roof. Pay specific attention to valleys and regions behind chimneys and skylights, where trash appears to collect. Clearing it off is an easy chore that may make a big impact on how well water drains off your roof. When you don't have a leaf blower, clear trash in the direction of the shingles using a soft domestic broom to avoid breaking them. Avoid using a power washer since it applies a tremendous amount of force to your roofing, which can lead shingles to be badly damaged or even removed entirely.
Check the caulk
The caulk surrounding the flashing is the first thing to deteriorate on newer roofs — the metal pieces that guide excess water from where roofing elements cross. Caulk decays significantly quicker than shingles, dry rotting, and cracking. As a result, you should inspect your flashing on a regular basis to ensure that your house is secured from the elements.
Tree Branches
Tree branches that dangle over your house can cause damage to your roof in a number of ways. They could rip a hole in your roof if they come off during a storm. Leaves or branches might fall into your gutters when it storms, blocking them and causing roof damage. Overhanging tree branches can scratch your shingles, causing damage or removal. Critters may nibble on shingles or decks, and tree branches can offer a perfect route for them.
If you need roof maintenance, contact the Roofing Contractor in Farmington, CT
