Hands down – the roof is one of the most important features of any building. Sure, it’s where the shelter comes from, but it’s also structurally significant as well. Then of course, the cost of roofing repair and replacement can be a real headache – all reasons roof maintenance is important. The condition of your roof is critical to protecting your home and its belongings, so you should always be mindful of signs of damage or aging. Regular roof maintenance is crucial to identifying minor problems before they become catastrophes, and in the long run regular maintenance can save you a lot of money.
Qualified, professional roofers are ideally suited to fulfilling your roof maintenance needs. An annual maintenance schedule includes inspection, repairs, and recommendations to ensure the quality and durability of your roof when you need it most. When harsh weather hits, you want to know your roof is in optimal condition, so most homeowners find that scheduling maintenance either before or just after the winter season is ideal for maintaining their roof. In fact, most professionals recommend biannual inspections – in the spring and fall. Another side benefit to regular maintenance is to ensure that your roof is impervious to pests and free of mold.
Indeed, regular roof inspections and maintenance preserve your roof, its functionality, and can extend the lifespan of your roof considerably. Just as you would have regular maintenance on your car, you should have regular roof maintenance. So, what should you expect from a regularly scheduled maintenance package for your roof? Because your roof is especially vulnerable to the effects of harsh weather including wind, rain, snow and even ultraviolet rays from the sun, regular maintenance includes a thorough inspection to identify areas of your roof that are especially susceptible to increasing damage. Your roofer will inspect around roofing structures to look for signs of damage, but they will also inspect materials for signs of wear and tear.
Ideally, your roofer will provide you with a written report of the findings of their inspection as well as recommendations for repair or maintenance. Some jobs are not urgent and maybe put off until the next season. Roofers inspect flashing, a common point where leaks originate because flashings are found at your roof’s perimeter, walls, penetrations, fixtures, and drains. Additionally, roof surfaces should be inspected for signs of wear and general degradation. Once weak spots are identified, repairs should be conducted.
If you want to keep your roof in optimal condition, it’s best to build a lasting relationship with a trustworthy roofing professional. They can provide you with a checklist of items that must be regularly inspected and maintained for your roof so that you can rest easy knowing your roof is in good hands.