Your roof provides the barrier between your family and the elements. It protects you from obvious threats like extreme weather events, falling tree branches, and excess moisture that can lead to mold.
Routine roof maintenance can catch problems early and keep them from getting worse. This can save you money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs and extending the lifespan of your roof. Visit https://redstickroofing.com/baton-rouge to learn more.
The flashing on your roof is a vital part of the system that keeps water out and moisture in. If it is damaged, it can allow water into the attic or home which can result in mold, rotting drywall or ruined insulation. It is important to inspect the flashing periodically to ensure that it is doing its job and not allowing water into the home.
In some cases, the flashing may need to be repaired or replaced. A professional should inspect it and recommend any necessary repairs. Most flashing is made of aluminum, which is ideal for roofs as it resists corrosion. It is installed in areas where the roof meets other parts of the house or around chimneys, skylights and vents. It is also located in valleys on the roof and around dormers.
During an inspection, the professional should check the condition of the flashing from the ground and from a ladder. They should look for gaps, waviness and the corners of the flashing. They should also make sure that the flashing is firmly fastened to the roof and shingles. They should also look at the penetrations, such as the vent pipes and media installations, and inspect their conditions.
If the flashing is damaged, it should be replaced immediately. Corrosion is a major cause of flashing leaks, especially in humid climates. A simple repair is to remove the old caulk and replace it with a fresh application of new caulk. The inspector should also check the gutters for damage and ensure that they are anchored in place so that they can withstand high winds, particularly during hurricane season.
It is possible for homeowners to perform some of the inspection of the roof flashing, but it is not recommended without proper training and safety equipment. The inspection should be done from a ladder, and the homeowner should not climb on the roof itself. A good ladder should be used, and it should be tall enough to give the inspector a full view of the entire roof and all of its components. It is not a good idea to use binoculars from the ground or even a window, as it will not provide a full view of the roof.
Clean the Gutters
Gutter cleaning is one of the most important parts of roof maintenance. It keeps rainwater flowing properly and prevents damage to the roof, siding, and foundation of the home. Gutter clogs can cause water to back up under the shingles and into the sheathing, which in turn will rot and cause structural problems. It is recommended that homeowners clean their gutters at least twice a year. This can be a difficult job and should be done in dry weather to make the task easier and safer.
A common method for cleaning the gutters is to use a ladder and a bucket. The ladder should be placed on a stable, secure surface and it is advised to wear work gloves for safety purposes. Start by scooping out the leaves and debris with the gutter bucket and placing them in the bucket. Continue doing this until the gutter is completely clear. Then move the ladder to another part of the gutter and repeat the process.
Another option for cleaning the gutters is to use specialized tools. Several gutter-cleaning tools are available, such as a telescoping tool that allows the user to remain safely on the ground while cleaning the gutter. These tools are also great for reaching obstructed areas on the roof, such as in valleys, near chimneys or heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. It is always best to wear eye protection when using these tools as there could be falling debris that could hit the homeowner in the face or body.
Many homeowners also choose to use a leaf blower to remove the debris from their roof gutters. This is a much quicker and simpler method than climbing a ladder and doing it manually. However, it is still not as safe as using a specialized gutter-cleaning tool or the traditional ladder method.
Rather than spending the time and money to clean the gutters, homeowners can prevent them from getting clogged by installing gutter guards. These screens will block leaves, twigs and other debris while allowing water to flow freely through the gutter.
Trim Tree Branches
Trees are a beautiful addition to any yard, offering shade, curb appeal and even resale value. However, if they’re allowed to grow out of control, they can cause damage to your roof and the surrounding property. Regularly trimming the branches that hang over your house is essential for keeping it in good condition.
Tree limbs that are too close to the roof can cause damage in several ways, and not just during severe weather. They can scrape the shingles and weaken them over time, especially if the area has been left unattended for a long period of time. They can also block the gutters, causing them to become clogged with leaves. Finally, they can allow animals, such as squirrels, to climb up on the roof and try to nest.
A professional arborist will be able to safely trim the limbs that are over your roof, without causing any harm or additional issues. They’ll know how far the limbs should be from the roof, and they’ll also be able to spot any signs of damage that could cause problems down the line.
Attempting to cut the limbs yourself is dangerous, and even a small mistake can lead to costly repairs for your roof or other property. It’s always best to hire a certified, insured arborist to handle this task. They’ll have the proper tools to get the job done quickly and effectively.
If you’re looking for an arborist that can handle the job of trimming the limbs of your roof, contact Industry Elite Services today. We’ll provide the expert care that you need to keep your home in top condition.
We offer a wide variety of residential and commercial landscaping services, including tree trimming. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation! We look forward to hearing from you! We’re proud to serve the Phoenix, AZ area. We strive to be the leading provider of landscape services in our area, and we’re confident that you won’t regret choosing us! We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality work and customer service, and we’ll do everything we can to meet your needs.
Inspect the Shingles
A visual inspection is an important first step in keeping a shingle roof in good shape. Look for missing or cracked shingles that should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent leaks and further damage. Look for any shingles that have been lifted by the force of strong winds and need to be secured. A professional roofer can help you find the right shingles for your roof and install them in accordance with your roof’s design.
A licensed roofer will also check for rust or cracks in the thin metal flashing that lines penetrations like skylights, chimneys and vent pipes. These are common areas for water leaks to occur. They will also examine fascia boards, the horizontal boards that run along a roof’s edges and soffit boards, which cover the underside of the roof overhangs, for rot or other damage.
Shingles should be inspected for buckling, curling and blistering. These are signs of moisture seepage through the shingle and into the attic, which can cause wood rot and leaks in the home. In addition, dark stains on the shingles may indicate the presence of moss or algae, which can lead to a deterioration of the shingle and underlying structure.
After a storm, the inspector will also check for debris that has been blown onto the roof and make sure that it has been removed. They will also inspect the gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of any obstructions that could block water flow, as well as any areas where there may be a leak or a problem with the drainage system.
Those who are comfortable climbing a ladder can also conduct a more thorough inspection from the ground with the help of a pair of binoculars. They can inspect the shingles more closely, looking for any that are broken or missing and for signs of other damage such as dents from hail and standing water stains. They can also check for a moss or algae buildup as well as the condition of the attic ventilation system to make sure it is allowing adequate airflow and preventing humidity buildup that can damage shingles.