Anyone can attest that the roof is the most important part of your home exterior as it is what protects your property and its occupants as a whole. This means it also needs the same level of protection to last long. If you have noticed your system rapidly weakening, here’s a list of its enemies that every homeowner should be aware of on their roof.
Rain Roofing contractors note how moisture is considered the root cause of most roofing dilemmas. Normally, rainwater should slide off your roof and into the gutters, which will then divert it to the drains. However, if your roof was damaged or the gutters are clogged, water might infiltrate your roof and cause leaks and other possible defects.
Ultraviolet (UV) Damage Similar to any object, over time, UV rays can slowly degrade your roofing system. Once this happens, your shingles may dramatically warp, even allowing cracks to form on their surface. As a tip, you are urged to purchase and have light-colored roofing shingles installed. Keep in mind that the closer a shade is to white, the more heat and UV rays it reflects.
Wind Uplift This is created when pressure builds up from under your roof and is greater than the pressure above it. The resulting pressure against the structure may be strong enough to push shingles or roofing membranes upwards.
Hailstones Small or large hailstones, no matter the size, can damage wood shakes, slate and even metal roofs. It is advised that, if your area frequently experiences such circumstances, hail-resistant class 4 shingles would be a smart investment for roof replacement as they’re equipped to withstand both hail and wind damage.
That said, it is always vital to ensure that your roofing system is well taken care of to maximize its longevity and functionality. As a guide, here are some of the practices you can consider doing to avoid costly roof repair and replacement in the future. These are ways you can also prolong your roof’s lifespan.
Dealing with roof leaks promptly: Although seen as a minor inconvenience, leaks can worsen fairly quickly and leave your home more susceptible to water damage. That’s why you should have them dealt with immediately. Keep in mind that these can happen for a variety of reasons, which oftentimes start very small. As a tip, schedule regular roof inspections because these would allow you to detect leaks as well as other issues at the early stages. You can look for beams of light coming through your attic or dark-colored stains to verify. It’s crucial to detect them in time so that fixes can be done to save you from spending double.
Doing repairs as soon as possible: In any circumstance, delaying action and resolution will result in damage worsening over time. Leaks can grow quickly, and water damage may occur. Once you spot roof damage or other roofing issues, make sure to call your roofer immediately. Being able to act as quickly as you can will prevent further damage and prolong the life of your roof.
Hiring a reliable roofer: Working with a reputable contractor for your roofing concerns is definitely a necessity. As urged, it would be helpful to have a shortlist of prospective contracts. Checking their references is also an ideal step to make certain that you choose the most suitable roofer for your project. Remember whether the job involves installation, replacement or repair, competent and experienced local roofing contractors are what you need. They are more knowledgeable about codes and regulations, plus your climate.
Always checking your guarantees: Don’t get caught in the web of subpar work. Make certain that the roofing company you hire offers some sort of guarantee so you don’t get stuck with roofing dilemmas and no recourse.
Considering signing up for a roof maintenance plan: Roof upkeep will become simple and more seamless with this. Experts recommend having a professional roof checkup at least once a year or after every major weather event. This way, you can catch any warning signs of a developing roof issue and have them dealt with fast.
Cleaning your gutters: If you have some work done on your roof, do not hesitate to have your gutters checked, too. If your gutters become clogged, they allow rainwater to back up and overflow. Some of that water ends up dripping behind the eaves and fascia board, eventually finding its way into the attic. To prevent mold and rot from developing in this space, always keep your gutters tidied up.
Despite the need to continuously maintain your system, people are encouraged, more than ever, to assure their roofs are installed by professionals. System failures can not only be due to poor maintenance. To avoid spending again for a roof replacement, take note of these:
Poor installation: Your roof condition can be immediately affected by the quality of your roofer’s service and workmanship. An inadequate or bad installation can easily cause damage and more issues over time.
Defective roofing materials: Remember that homeowners should keep track of every part of their roofing system. Some items may be defective over time due to adverse weather events, so it is urged to schedule a roof maintenance inspection at least twice a year as iterated.
Moisture: When neglected over time, moisture can accumulate, resulting in serious issues to your system. Normally, moisture buildup attracts the growth of mold and mildew, which eventually lead to rot. This can rapidly spread from your roof to the walls of your home, posing a threat to the integrity of the structure.
The bottom line is although roof maintenance can mean a lot of work, it will definitely pay off given that it is one of your biggest investments as a homeowner. Make certain you ask an expert for assistance. You can’t always see damage and issues with the naked eye, so call a roofing professional who has the knowledge and tools to thoroughly assess the situation properly.
A1 Quality Roofing, Inc. welcomes the opportunity to discuss our products and services with you. Whether you are a residential, commercial or industrial client, we look forward to serving your roof replacement needs. Call us today at (800) 400-2799, or submit our online form to get in touch with a knowledgeable local roofing contractor.
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