There are places where you make compromises, and there are those where you don’t. Today, we’ll be talking about the latter. Imagine running a full sprint with a bottle with no cap on. What will be left inside by the time you’re done running? Worse, what might get inside? It leaves the contents of the […] The post Top Tips For Maintaining Your Roof Throughout The Year appeared first on Fresh Land Magazine.
There are places where you make compromises, and there are those where you don’t. Today, we’ll be talking about the latter. Imagine running a full sprint with a bottle with no cap on. What will be left inside by the time you’re done running? Worse, what might get inside? It leaves the contents of the bottle exposed.
That’s the same role a roof plays in a house. It protects everything that is on the inside, from furniture to people, from the elements. From rain to sun to the random bugs, your roof shelters you from all of them. So, here are some tips and tricks for maintaining your roof year-round.
Observation and Inspection
Before an individual rides their motorcycle around town, they do a number of checks. Tire pressure? Check. Fuel? Check. Is the bike clean? Check. Regular inspections are necessary as the consequences are high—don’t let Hollywood fool you; it isn’t cool to ride blindly.
The very same logic applies when it comes to maintaining your roof. Instead of waiting around for something to go wrong, develop a habit of visually checking up on the condition of your roof.
Keep it clean, and look for leaks and floor damage, signs of sagging, etc., to help address issues before they snowball into a disaster. If you notice something that needs instant action, contact emergency roofers asap.
Tips for Maintaining Your Roof
With general observation out of the way, let’s now get to the specific things an individual should look out for or tasks they should perform in order to keep their property’s roof healthy for the years to come.
Keep Gutters Clean
Remember the very simple rule of thumb: water should flow outside your home. Clogged gutters lead to water overflowing and sitting on your walls and roof, leading to damage and dampness.
Gutters clog up easily. Things like twigs, debris, downspouts of leaves, etc., all hinder its natural functioning. So, develop a habit of proactively looking for signs of clogging.
Manage Vegetation On and Around Your Roof
Trees close to one’s home look pretty, but they can cause issues. Sturdy trees are fine, but if you’re in an area that often sees heavy storms, a tree branch falling on your roof can cause serious harm. It is best to have the overhanging branches trimmed back so that in case a storm does arrive, your home is safe.
There are also situations where you might find plants growing on your roof. They, again, certainly look great, but you’d be surprised to learn how resilient their roots are, and they can often tear through the material on your roof. So, if you notice them growing, with a heavy heart, it is best to remove them.
Ensure Ventilation
It might not jump out as obvious initially, but having good ventilation is quite important for the summer season. So, if your attic is stuffy, that’s bad news for your roof. Poor ventilation is an omen for mould growth and the build-up of heat.
Mould grows due to moisture, and it leads to sickness and weakening of the structural integrity of your roof, respectively. Furthermore, the build-up of heat results in more usage of the air conditioner and, thus, more energy consumption.
A sign of good ventilation is that your indoor space is comfortable. Make sure your vents are clear and working. If they’re not, get them sorted. It’s a simple fix that can make a world of difference.
Get Ready for Winter
The colder months aren’t any more forgiving, bringing their own challenges to the table. The freezing temperatures, ice dams, and whatnot. Ice often builds up in your gutters, blocks them, and results in water backing up under your roof covering. Basic clearing of the gutter before winter hits should largely solve this problem, along with ensuring your roof is ventilated.
Tackle Moss and Algae
Moss and algae certainly give your home a very natural aesthetic appeal, but alas, they aren’t your roof’s best friend. You see, they’re moisture-trapping little monsters, which aren’t great for your tiles or shingles. If you spot any, there are safe cleaning solutions out there to help remove them, or consider contacting a roofing contractor—they can do the needful.
Look After the Flashing and Sealants
Flashing is the metal around areas like chimneys, skylights, and vents. If it gets damaged or the sealant wears off, water and tiny little bugs have a pathway to sneak in and cause all sorts of problems. If you notice cracks or gaps, it’s best to get them resealed or contact the best roofing contractor so the water stays where it belongs: outside.
Contacting Roofing Contractors
Whilst regular self-inspections are beneficial and DIY projects are fun, there are some things where you have to call in the pros. Roofing contractors have the know-how and experience required to identify potential issues that might be overlooked, as well as the tools and expertise to provide and perform actual solutions.
For issues such as:
- Significant leaks
- Structural damage
- Missing or broken tiles
It is best to contact emergency roofers promptly. Select a reputable roofing contractor that provides a warranty on their work. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Experience and credentials
- Reviews and client testimonials
- Detailed Estimates and clear communication
Conclusion
The weather in the UK isn’t particularly easy-going on roofs, so regular roof maintenance, for any responsible home or business owner, isn’t optional. Follow these tips and make use of professional roofing services when and where necessary to ensure your roof stays over your head throughout the year.
The post Top Tips For Maintaining Your Roof Throughout The Year appeared first on Fresh Land Magazine.
