The roof over your head is the ultimate protection for you and your family. It shields you from the hot sun and protects you from the rain and snow. Any damage to your roof, no matter how small, can develop into something serious very quickly, costing you time and money. Unfortunately, roof issues often go undetected until they have caused damage not only to your roof but to the frame and even the interior of your home. Here are some steps you can take to keep your roof in top shape for many years to come.
Damaged or Missing Shingles or Tiles
It’s a good idea to check your roof for damage a few times a year, especially after severe storms. Shingles or tiles which have been compromised should be replaced immediately. Often, debris may damage shingles, but they may also be eroded by weather and time. If asphalt shingles are losing their granules or curling up at the edges, maintenance is needed. If clay tiles are cracked or broken, they should be replaced. If you have a metal roof, check for signs of rust and degradation. Check for loose or exposed nails, which can cause open holes and allow water to seep into your home.
You should hire professional roofing contractors to repair your roof. The roof should be fully inspected to make sure that the problem doesn’t extend beyond the tiles themselves. Replacing a few shingles without realizing there’s water damage beneath them could prove to be very costly in the long run.
The Integrity of Sealants
Check the roof sealants around skylights, chimneys, vents, or any roof penetrations. Inspect your roofing tiles to ensure they are sealed securely, and the sealant isn’t dried up or cracking. Water can easily seep into any space not sealed against it, so old or eroding sealant on an otherwise well-maintained roof may still cause damage.
Roof Debris
Although mold and fungus don’t damage your roof in the short-term, over time, this growth can erode your roofing materials and cause leaks and intrusions. Cleaning your roof once a year will keep your roof looking great and help to maximize its lifespan. Power washing your roof may cause damage, so check with a roofing company in Sandy Springs first about the best way to clean algae or moss. Trim any branches that are hanging too close to or directly above your roof.
Gutters and Flashing
If you see many granules or a lot of roofing debris in your gutters, that could be a sign that your roof was damaged in a storm. Check your flashing—the metal around joints, like chimneys, valleys, and vents, in the roof. Make sure your flashing is intact and hasn’t peeled away. Check for water collecting near your foundation or gutters that overflow and wash out mulch beds or dirt around your home.
Your Attic
Paying attention to your attic can also dramatically increase the health and longevity of your roof. It may be easier to spot certain issues with your roof, such as leaking, from your attic. Keeping an eye out for dark spots on your attic walls and ceilings can help you catch a leak early. You can look for missing shingles or any other kind of exposure by scanning the attic ceiling for daylight, a sign your roof has thinned or has a hole.
Call Superior Roofing Company of Georgia at (770) 279-2621 for all your roofing needs.