Your roof can be in top form this year if you take a little time to give it the care it needs. While you're out raking the leaves or mowing the lawn, you can give your roof a once-over from the ground to be sure it's ready for rough weather. The last thing you need when there's snow on the ground and a chill in the air is a roof problem.
The safest way to check your roof is to look at it through binoculars from the ground. You don't have to climb a ladder to spot potential problems. Here are some things to look out for:
- Make sure your gutters are securely fastened and draining properly.
- Make sure there are no cracks or open seams in your gutters or downspouts.
- Check that your roof isn't missing any shingles, tiles, slates or nails.
- Look for signs of decay on the shingles and sheathing, and make sure no shingles are cracked, curled or missing.
- If you have a flat roof, the drainage system must be designed to handle water appropriately and be in working order.
- Look at the mortar and bricks on your chimney; you may need a mason to make necessary repairs.
- Check the flashings - the metal pieces used to waterproof interruptions in the roof plane such as pipes, chimneys and skylights.
- Look over the caulking and touch it up where it might be deficient.
- Dark, dirty-looking areas on your roof can be a sign that your roofing material has reached the end of its life span.
If you do spot problems, your next step should be to call in a roofing professional to evaluate your roof and determine what, if anything, needs to be done to repair the damage.
If you need to re-roof your home, remember that the key to a long roof life is the right combination of underlayment, ventilation, insulation and shingles. When these elements are working in unison, they can provide maximum performance, efficiency and roof life.
The right roofing materials can protect your investment without breaking the bank.
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