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Routine Roof Maintenance

Roof Maintenance Tips That Will Save Money, Time and Extend the Life of Your Roof.

Routine Roof Maintenance

ROOF MAINTENANCE TIPS

Even the most well built roof will eventually wear out. But, there are many ways to extend the life of your roof.  For most, it is a good idea to hire a professional certified roofing company to keep the preventative roof maintenance on schedule and your roof at peak performance.    For those who are up to the task, here is a basic guideline of what to look for:

PLUMBING VENTS: Inspect all pipes for cracking, proper seal and paint. Inspect neoprene or rubber edges to ensure that there is no cracking and a firm seal.

SKYLIGHTS: Water often gets trapped behind them.  Inspect flashing to ensure that it isn’t lifting and is tightly sealed.

CHIMNEYS: The number one source of leaks.  Determine if the chimney has a cricket.  Inspect for proper step, counter flashing and ensure that all are properly sealed.

SATELLITE DISHES: Ensure that they are securely installed, haven’t been loosened by high winds or storm and that they are flashed and sealed properly.

DRIP EDGE: Not just decorative, it is designed to keep water away from the fascia and moved off of the roof. Missing drip edge is a common leak source in the eaves and potential cause for wood rot in a missing drip edge.  Properly installed drip edge will also helps to keep out pests.

STEP FLASHING: Missing step flashing is a common leak source and maintenance item. Inspect dormers and roof-to-wall transitions for integrity of sealant to ensure that there are no gaps or cracks and that good quality sealant or mastic has been applied.

GUTTERS: Keep them free of debris, tightly fastened and sloped for positive water flow away from the home.

ATTIC: Don’t assume the roof is the culprit!  This often overlooked part of the home inspection can be very revealing.  A lot of issues can stem from improper ventilation, plumbing, vent fans, air conditioning and condensation, or even animal intrusion. Problems to look for:

    • Mold
    • Algae Stains on interior plywood
    • Soaked insulation when it hasn’t rained
    • Black rings or rust around nails, which is the first sign moisture is condensing in attic spaces
    • Is there a lack of ventilation that is causing the attic to overheat or accumulate moisture?
    • Are the intake vents clogged with paint, spider webs, dust, or insulation

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