Roof leaks are not always easy to detect, and they can cause a lot of damage.
By the time you actually catch a roof leak, it could have already caused a lot of expensive damage to not just your roof but also your home. Roof leaks aren’t always obvious, which is why it’s much better to prevent roof leaks than it is to try to cope with the aftermath of them. The good news is that with a little preventative maintenance from the roofing experts in Edmonton at Sargeant’s Roofing, it’s easy to prevent roof leaks and all of the damage that comes with them. Here are the top maintenance tasks that help homeowners to avoid roof leaks:
#1. Keep an eye on the spots most likely to leak.
There are some places on your roof that are more prone to leaks than others. Chimney and plumbing vent flashings, roof valleys and skylights are just a few examples of areas where leaks are commonly found. Flashings are particularly troublesome because they can crack and wear out over time. However, if you stay on top of inspecting your roof flashings and other leak-prone areas, you can address issues long before they lead to roof leaks.
Click Here for a Great Infographic on Spotting Leaks!
#2. Don’t ignore your attic.
When a leak occurs, most people automatically blame the roof, but there are plenty of problems in your attic that can lead to roof leaks, including poor ventilation or insulation, condensation and animal infestations. Poor ventilation and insulation are especially concerning because they could lead to the formation of ice dams, which cause roof leaks and a whole host of other issues. Check your attic regularly and watch out for any signs of mold, soaked insulation, accumulating heat or moisture, rust or black rings around nails, intake vents that are clogged with dust, paint spider webs, and algae stains on the plywood.
#3. Clean out your gutters!
Cleaning gutters is one of the most overlooked maintenance tasks by homeowners, but if you neglect your gutters, roof leaks are just one of the potential consequences you could face. If your gutters are dirty and clogged with twigs, leaves and other debris, the water on your roof has nowhere to go after rain or snow has fallen. In addition to cleaning your gutters out on a regular basis, it’s also important to ensure that they are sloped at the right angle in order to drain and that they are fastened to your roof properly.
#4. Leave the roof repairs to the experts.
Did you know that homeowners inexpertly walking on their own roofs are a huge cause of residential roof leaks? Regardless of whether you have an asphalt roof or a cedar roof, your roof is fragile, and if you don’t know how to walk on it safely, you can do a lot of damage to your roof. That’s why it’s always best to leave roof repairs and other chores that require you to get on top of your roof to the experts. Not only is hiring a professional better for your roof, it’s also much safer!
Click here for Rooftop Safety Tips!
#5. Get the regular maintenance you need.
Regular maintenance is essential for many reasons, but if you are interested in avoiding roof leaks, it’s essential. When you get the maintenance you need, a professional roofer will thoroughly inspect your roof for signs of trouble, allowing them to catch and correct minor issues before they lead to damaging roof leaks. Roof maintenance should be performed both before and after the winter season.
Roof leaks can be expensive and damaging, but with a little know-how, it’s not difficult to prevent them. Whether you are due for roof maintenance or you need help fixing a leak, Sargeant’s Roofing can help. Contact us today to learn more.