Every roof can leak or eventually wear out over time. These tips will help you make the best decisions about repairing, replacing and maintaining the roof with ease every time. If you suspect there is a problem, it’s always best to have an expert check it out right away to ensure there is no risk or reason for worry. Preventive measures are also advised as many problems don’t show signs until a new roof replacement is needed.
Repair
Roof repair is relatively easy to spot when needed if you know what to look for. Many people don’t realize that even a small hole in the roof can leak thousands of dollars of water into the home. In addition, fixing a roof requires specific supplies and skills that many homeowners may not have on hand. For this reason, a professional inspection early on is a good investment.
If you do not need to replace your roof immediately, there are still some things you can do to extend the life of your roof and save money on repairs for the future.
Remove any debris that has accumulated around your gutters. Leaves and other plant matter can pile up and prevent rainwater from flowing smoothly off the roof. Removing this debris can make a huge difference to the overall condition of your roof.
Address any problems as soon as possible. Many issues, such as leaking and rotting wood, ice dams, and moss buildup, only become worse over time. Homeowners should not attempt to deal with these conditions on their own or wait until they worsen, but rather act advantageously while the issue is still a small one.
Make sure there is proper ventilation in your attic. Asphalt shingles are waterproof when intact. If they get hot enough, they can turn soft and lose their protective qualities. The heat in the summer helps make the roof hotter, which can speed up this process. You should leave an open space between the insulation and the roof to allow for proper airflow. This can increase efficiency and save you money on cooling costs.
Look for signs of aging, such as rust spots on the metal seams. These areas are likely experiencing leaks, so you will need to replace them if they are too damaged. It’s smart to have your roof professionally inspected every few years to assess for problems that might develop over time.
Replace
It is important to address issues with your roof right away. If you have shingles that are curling up at the edges, you should get them replaced quickly. These curled-up pieces are very vulnerable to being blown off in high wind.
It’s important to replace old wooden beams if they become rotten or worn. If you try to hide a problem, it will only get worse and end up costing far more in the long run.
Replacing your roof can be done by a variety of methods, depending on the material of your old roof, how many layers, and the state of shape everything is in. You should consult a qualified contractor who specializes in professional roof care for guidance.
Maintain
Maintaining your roof is extremely important. If you notice the shingles are starting to curl up in certain areas, fix the problem before it gets worse, as not doing so can speed up the aging process for the whole roof. The worst thing you can do when you notice this issue is leave it untreated.
It is a good idea to ask a contractor how they maintain a roof after it has been replaced. Some companies recommend inspecting your roof once a year, while others make quarterly inspections part of their regular service offering. It all comes down to personal preference and what works best for you and your home.
A properly maintained roof can help make sure that your house stays dry and habitable. It also increases the lifespan of your home, so it is always better to catch problems early on before they snowball into expensive repairs down the road.
The average life of a roof is about 20 years with many roofs lasting longer depending on the type of material used and environmental factors, such as weather. If your roof needs to be repaired or it has outlived its usefulness, it’s time to do some research.
There are many things to keep in mind when repairing or replacing your roof. Make sure you hire a qualified contractor who will make the process as painless and stress-free as possible for you.
Great Look Renovations offers local roofing repairs, replacement, and maintenance. For additional information, please contact us. We are committed to providing you with the best service possible so that your roof can protect your home for many years to come.
