Keep a careful watch for roof damage

by smithelsa » Fri Jan 30, 2015 10:48 am

Just like a car, which can cost more to maintain than it does to actually buy it, your roof can cost you a lot of money to keep it in good shape. Roofs can develop a number of problems such as ice dams in the winter, leaks year round, and algae growth, to name just a few. You can save yourself a lot of money by catching and correcting these problems early rather than waiting until the damage is extensive and costly to repair. Because your roof is out of sight, it’s easy to not think about it as you go about your day. As a general rule, you should do a thorough inspection of your roof at least twice a year and keep an eye out for signs of damage year round. Whether you’re performing a thorough inspection or just keeping your eyes peeled, here are some things to look for.

The roofing shingles

Over time, your shingles can curl, crack, blister, or even fly away during a strong wind. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage to your roofing shingles as these are vulnerable areas where water can get through your roof and into your home.

The flashing


The flashing is the metal under layer that protects the parts of your roof that are most vulnerable to water getting through such as the areas around your vents and chimney. The flashing can corrode over time become vulnerable.

rain gutters


When inspecting your roof, don’t forget that your rain gutters are an important part of your roofing system. Make sure they’re securely attached to your roof. Clogged rain gutters can get backed up with water or ice and become so heavy that they pull away from the side of your home. When checking your rain gutters, look for a buildup of shingle granules. If you see a lot of granules, it’s a sign that your roof is nearing the end of its life.

The attic

Finally, you should occasionally head up into your attic with a flashlight to check for any signs of water damage from the underside of your roof. If you’ve got a leak, it will manifest itself in your attic first.

Remember, the sooner you catch and repair these problems, the less money it will cost you.
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Source: kaaltv.com/article/stories/S3685472.shtml?cat=11985

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