You may not give your roof much thought until you spot a leak inside the house. However, there are many preventative and restorative steps you can take to prevent serious damage. If you would like to know more about how to maintain and repair different parts of your roof, keep reading.
Shingles
Depending on the type of shingles you have, you may need to take a few extra steps to keep them looking good. Regardless of the material, however, you should keep the roof free of debris. Debris not only adds extra weight to the roof, which can cause excess wear and tear, but it also traps water.
Asphalt and wood shingles are prone to moss growth, and you may need to apply wood sealant to a wood roof. Regardless of the type of shingles, replace any as soon as you spot damage or missing shingles.
Flashing
Flashing is usually made from metal, and it protects vulnerable spots of the roof where water may collect or can easily slip through the roof. For example, your chimney passes through the roof, leaving a small gap all around the chimney. Over time, expansion and contraction can cause this gap to widen. Flashing covers is to offer better protection.
You need to monitor flashing for damage. Make sure the flashing is tight against the roof. You'll want to replace any flashing that is bent, rusted, or missing.
Gutters
Maintaining gutters isn't fun. You must remove debris like leaves and twigs regularly to prevent clogs. A clogged gutter system causes the water to overflow. This can lead to many issues, including:
- Damage to the siding and other parts of the house
- Erosion around the foundation
- Erosion in pathways and driveways
- Ice on walkways
Even if you maintain your gutter system, you may need to repair or replace it from wear and tear. Dents and gaps make the system less effective.
Whole Roof
If your roof is particularly old or fully worn, it may be time to replace the entire structure. Even if you repair shingles, there may be underlying damage to the decking and the rest of the roof. If you already have leaks inside the house, you'll probably want to consider a total roof replacement.
Roofs don't require much attention, but they do need some regular maintenance and repairs. With good care, your roof can last a long time and keep you and your home protected. If you would like to know more, contact a residential roof repair technician today.
To find out more, contact residential roof repair services.
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