Ways to Prevent Expensive Roofing Problems
Roof system maintenance is often the most neglected area of a roof management program and the single most important factor (after proper installation) for determining the life span and cost of a roof system. Replacing a roof is neither cheap nor easy. But staying ahead of little problems that can lead to much bigger problems down the road can help you avoid spending your hard-earned money in repairs.
Here are a few routine steps you can take to help prevent problems and extend the life of your roof:
Keep debris off of your rooftop
Don’t let branches, leaves or other debris collect on your roof. They can hold moisture and cause your roof to rot.
Mind those leaks
Leaks, of course, are the big issue you need to be concerned about with your roof. Even small leaks can cause some significant water damage, as well as mold growth. Keep an eye out for leaks inside your home, and ask your roofing inspector to check for any signs of leaks up top as well. The longer you wait to fix leaks in your roof, the more damage will be done, resulting in much more significant and expensive problems to fix.
Look for broken tiles, cracked shingles and sheet
No matter what type of roofing material you have, you can prevent larger problems, like leaks, by carefully examining your roof and finding any broken or cracked roofing tile, sheet or shingle. These protect the waterproof layer of your roof. Exposure to the sun can cause the waterproof layer to deteriorate, allowing moisture to enter your home. Replace these as soon as possible.
Replace tiles, shingles or sheets that blow off
Occasionally, your roofing will blow off during heavy windstorms, resulting in some bare patches on your roof. As long as you make the replacements quickly, you’ll be able to avoid the damage getting worse and potentially leading to you having to replace the entire roof.
Pay special attention to valleys and ridges
Many roofing problems occur where the plane of the roof changes – that is, in the ridges and valleys. Make sure that the roofing in these areas properly overlap and that the underlayment is in good condition without any tears, holes or punctures. It is especially important to keep these areas free of debris.
Engage in annual inspections
Your roof may look fine from the ground, but pinhole leaks hidden from view can cause extensive water damage over time. Annual roofing inspections and other forms of preventative care can go a long way toward helping you avoid major problems with your roof.
Work with a Local Expert
While you certainly don’t want to pay more than you need to for roof repairs or replacement, price alone should never be your only consideration. A roofing company that seems to offer a bargain may be far from it: sub par work performed by unlicensed contractors who may not be using the right materials can cost you much more in the long run. Poor installation or repairs can make your roof more vulnerable to leaks, improper drainage, wind damage, and other problems. Rather than focusing on price, first make sure the roofing company has the experience and expertise you need.
Check their credentials
Always make the effort to contact references and check credentials. Unfortunately, there are always those who are willing to take advantage of property owners. An established roofing company should have plenty of customers who can testify to the company’s professionalism and quality of work.
Work with companies that have warranties
Any company you hire to take on your roof projects should have some sort of guarantees they offer for their work so you do not get stuck with some major roofing issues and have no recourse to get those problems fixed for free. A company that does not stand by its work or offer warranties or other guarantees to its customers cannot be trusted to do a good job the first time around. Onduline offers 15 years warranty to its products. For more details, click here.