5 MAINTENANCE TIPS TO HELP PREVENT ROOF LEAKS
Leaky roofs are one of the most common problems among homeowners. Many of them don’t set aside time to inspect their roofs until they notice that there’s something wrong.
Calling a professional is a smart move but they too can have a hard time locating the source of the leak.
Regular roof maintenance saves both you and the contractor a whole lot of hassle. Here are some maintenance tips to help prevent roof leaks:
1. Look at Any Penetrations on the Roof
Penetrations stop the water flow of a roof and are the most common sources of leaks. A top place that you should have a look at first to locate the source of the leak is the chimney. Check if it needs to be sealed and if it is well counter flashed and step flashed.
Additionally, check on the plumbing vents. Is it necessary to paint or seal them? If this is the case, make sure to hire a professional roof repair or painting service as these are some of the most dangerous home improvement jobs to DIY.
2. Clean Your Gutter
Gutters play a crucial role in the roof system and home. They protect your home from the dangerous effects of water by directing it away from the roof.
Make it a point to include them in your roof inspection and maintenance plan. In addition, clean them at least twice a year.
Not cleaning your gutter leads to it being clogged. The water backs up under the shingles and into your ceilings and walls, which causes water damage and leaks.
3. Have a Look at the Drip Edge of Your Roof
The drip edge has two important functions to your home. It keeps water away from the fascia and off the roof and to add curb appeal to your home. Look for missing drip edges when inspecting this part.
Missing drip edges causes a gap between the roof deck and fascia board where water can enter. This water finds its way into the inner ceilings and walls and can cause the wood to rot.
4. Care for Branches and Trees
If there are big trees that hang over your roof, as well as bushes and trees near your home, know that they are a threat to the welfare of your roof and home.
They can damage your roof if they’re close enough to get into contact with it by puncturing it and even scratching it. They can also encourage the build-up of debris in your gutter.
You don’t have to cut them down. Trimming them regularly and ensuring that there are no bushes and branches hanging over your home is a great option.
5. What’s Going On Upstairs?
Don’t be too quick to conclude that your roof is the source of your leaking woes without giving your upstairs room or attic a thought. If your home happens to have an attic, you cannot overlook the problems arising from here.
One of the issues you should be on the lookout for when inspecting your attic is whether the intake vents are clogged with dust, paint, or spider webs. Ventilation parts such as ridge vents should never be blocked.
Other issues to look around for are stains of algae on the interior plywood, soaked insulation when there’s little or no rainfall and mould.
Give Your Roof The Care It Deserves
Your roof plays an important role in the wellbeing of your home. The least you can do is to take proper care of it. If you don’t know how to, don’t shy away from calling a professional contractor.
At Roof Guard Roofing, we offer quality roof services such as roof valley restoration and roof repairs to clients in Melbourne. Plus, we have the skills to handle all sorts of roofs to the satisfaction of our customers.