Your roof is perhaps the most neglected part of your house, and yet it is one of the most important, as it protects your home and everything in it from the elements. When you don’t pay attention to your roof, even a small amount of damage has the potential to turn into a major problem, with the expensive repair bills to boot. It is, therefore, important that you are aware of the steps you can take to prevent roof damage. It also helps if you are able to identify any potential damage before it becomes a bigger issue.
Regular inspections go a long way in ensuring that your roof is able to withstand extreme weather conditions. There are two ways to go about this: You can climb a ladder and inspect the roof from up close, or use binoculars to spot any damages from the ground. You need to look for any sign of loose or missing shingles or any large branches. However, it is best to call a reliable residential roofing contractor in Salt Lake City if you find large branches or limbs, as these can cause serious structural damage or accidents.
Table of Contents
Here Are Some Tips To Prevent Roof Damage:
Replace Missing Shingles
Cracked or missing shingles can cause your roof to leak. You can fix a cracked shingle using some roof sealant squeezed on to the opening. If a part of the shingle is missing, you will need to remove the nails using a hammer then pull up the shingle using a pry bar. Then, using a utility knife, you cut the shingle free, after which you will slip the new shingle into place, before nailing it down with four fasteners.
Fix Surfaces That Pond
Pools of water standing on your roof after it rains can be a sign that you will soon have a big problem in your hands, as ponding leaves your roof vulnerable to rotting. When the quality of your roof starts to deteriorate, it can lead to a multitude of problems, including leaks. If you have a flat and low-sloped roof, you need to be extra vigilant as it is more prone to ponding than steeply-pitched surfaces.
Clean Your Gutters Regularly
Gutters carry rain runoff away from your roof and siding, so you need to make sure that yours are not clogged. Clogged and damaged gutters gather more standing water and moisture on roof surfaces, thus increasing the chances of leaks. Remove leaves and other debris, and then use a garden hose to rinse it.
You also need to watch out for leaks, as well as rusted or twisted gutters that may cause problems in the future. Cleaning your gutters twice a year, preferably after fall and spring, is advisable.
Proper maintenance is important to make sure your roof will stand the test of time and continue providing protection for you and your family, as well as your belongings. It’s also advisable to work with the professionals in case you need assistance in repairing or replacing your roof.