If you’re settled into your Bloomfield home for the long run, you’ll want to keep up a good maintenance schedule. This is especially true since most manufacturer’s warranties require regular maintenance in keeping their warranties intact. Today, we’ll go through how to maintain your roof through yearly inspections. Most roofing contracts offer free inspections if you’d like to go the professional route. If you choose to do it yourself, be very careful as several professional workers are injured when working on roofs. Take safety precautions and when possible have someone help you. Here are some things to check for.
Debris
First, check for debris. Leaves and other debris tends to collect on the roof and gather moisture. This moisture will start to break down the shingles. Debris can also collect in valleys which prevents water to flow away from the roof and into the gutters. Most leaks come from openings in the roof like chimneys, joints, and vents and these are areas that debris tends to collect. So, you’ll want to find all debris and clear it away. This can be done just by using your hands and a garbage bag.
Shingles
Next you’ll want to check out your shingles as they protect your home from rain and extreme weather. Check to see if any shingles are loose or missing. Loose shingles should be secured with roofing cement. You should be able to find it at any hardware store and all you have to do is apply it underneath the loose shingle. Missing or damaged shingles aren’t as easy. They will have to be replaced. You can do this yourself or hire a professional roofer. You’ll also want to check for shingles that aren’t damaged yet, but are starting to become damaged. Check for granules falling off the shingles or cracks. If you find either, it’s time to replace the shingle.
Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters is a necessity so that water can flow off of your roof. This should be done twice a year. To clean, simply remove any debris from your gutters and downspouts.
Tree Limbs
If you have tree limbs hanging over your roof, you’ll want to trim them back. They can cause serious damage during high winds and the leaves that fall can prevent water from flowing off of your roof.
Snow
If you live in an area that gets snow you’ll want to get out and clear the snow off of your roof. Flat roofs are susceptible to collapse and this can be brought on by heavy snow. Simply use a snow rake to brush the snow off. Snow rakes can be found at most hardware stores. Taking these preventative measures now, can mean saving money later. If you’re diligent enough, you might just be able to make your roof last longer than expected.
If you are near Birmingham, Oakland County or the surrounding areas and need a roof company, give Martino Home Improvements a call at 248-629-9260. We can come out as soon as today and give you a free estimate.
