Your roof weathers a great deal and, hopefully, still manages to keep your family safe and dry no matter what the conditions are outside. Isn’t it time you returned the favor and did a little something for your roof? There are certain measures you can take to keep your roof in decent shape, which is important, particularly before harsh weather of any kind jeopardizes it.
Here are five of our favorite tips for keeping your roof protected this fall so it can protect you and your family when the time comes.
- Schedule Time for Your Roof
The experts recommend that any homeowner who is serious about routine maintenance should also be serious about the roof, one of the most important components of the house. Schedule time each year to inspect your roof. Walk around and notice any spots where it might be slumping or gapping, and where shingles are missing. But don’t put yourself in danger — it’s best to have a professional go up on the roof rather than try to do it yourself.
- Keep a Clean Yard
A great deal of damage to roofs is caused by fallen branches from trees and piles of leaves that simply sit and rot after severe weather. Fortunately, these occurrences are easy to prevent with the help of some simple landscaping. Make sure any trees that are close to your roof remain properly trimmed. You may even want to remove certain trees if they are constantly posing a threat to the roof.
- Educate Yourself on Ice Dams
Ice dams occur when ice forms on the roof edge and prevents water from draining off properly, just like a dam would in nature. During winter precipitation, ice dams can form, and pools of water sitting on rooftops can result in leaks and damage. According to experts, a warm attic is the cause since it keeps the top of the roof warmer than the edges. Make sure to close off your attic from the house and keep the roof at a consistent cold temperature (not warm on top).
- Make Sure Gutters are Cleaned Out
Damage to your roof can also happen when gutters are not cleaned out regularly. The function of gutters is to make sure water drains properly from the top of your home to the ground, but, as you know, gutters can be a catch-all for leaves and debris as well. Do your roof a favor and clean out the debris. Keeping those trees trimmed back will help this cause.
- Inspect Paperwork Regularly
Taking care of your roof is a both a practical and administrative task. It’s important to tend to the roof’s physical needs, but also be sure to inspect any paperwork related to your roof warranty and know what your homeowner’s insurance does and does not cover. It’s best to know this ahead of any storms, so that a weather emergency won’t result in panicking about fixing the roof. The more you stay on top of things, the more your roof will stay on top of you.
If you are looking for getting your roofing done, you can start a Free Estimate right now, just fill out the form and someone from our team will get back you to you in few hours (except weekend or holidays, but we try to get back to you as soon as possible.)
