The Importance of Roofing Maintenance
Roofing maintenance is a critical part of any building’s protection against the elements. Identifying and repairing small problems as they develop will save thousands of dollars in repairs and potential structural damage to the structure below.
It is important for a roof to be visually inspected on a regular basis. This allows for the identification of soft spots on the roof, and for any shingle problems to be caught early. A professional roofer will be able to repair any cracks, curling, missing or damaged shingles and buckling flashing.
A visual inspection should also include a detailed check of the flashings, which are typically the source of leaks. The flashings should be inspected at skylights, perimeters, walls, penetrations, equipment curbs, and drains. These areas are particularly stressed due to thermal movement, possible differential movement, and UV degradation.
Sitting debris, especially in roof valleys, is another major cause of roof https://www.lancasterroofingtx.com/flower-mound-roof-maintenance-tips-protect-home leaks. This is because a water dam forms in the valleys when leaves, sticks and other debris build-up. This then causes water to back up, get under shingles, and leak into the house. A roofer can clean out these areas by removing the debris and then treating them with a special chemical to prevent future build-up.
It is a good idea to have a professional inspect the interior of the building as well, to look for signs of water damage. This may be in the form of mold, mildew, water stains or ceiling discoloration. Water damage can also lead to rot and decay of the timbers and joists of the upper floor.
Another important maintenance item is to trim any tree branches that hang over the roof. This will reduce the chance that they will break during stormy weather and damage the roof. It is recommended that this be done on an annual basis, and especially after any extreme weather events.
Roof cleaning is also important, and this can be done by a professional roofer, or the facility staff can do it on their own. This helps to remove the accumulation of moss, algae and other surface growths that can degrade the material. It is a good idea to have the gutters cleaned regularly as well, so that debris doesn’t block them.
Another area that needs attention is the caulking around chimneys and vent pipes. These are vital to preventing water leaks, but can become cracked and damaged as the roof expands and contracts. A caulking replacement should be done annually. It is also a good idea to have the chimneys and vent pipes professionally inspected on a routine basis to make sure they are functioning properly. The chimney itself should be cleaned frequently to remove soot, which is dangerous if it builds up and can cause fires. Also, having it swept regularly will prevent it from becoming blocked and inoperable.