Roof maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends the life of your roof. It includes cleaning, inspections for major damage and minor repairs like hammering loose nails.
Leaks, mold and rot are avoided by regular inspections. Prompt repair of leaks reduces damage to drywall and structural components. Contact Kalispell Roofing Pro’s for professional help.
Surface repairs and maintenance are relatively inexpensive and easy. Inspections should include the chimney, skylights and vent pipes for leaks.
Flashing is a sheet metal fabricated to a specific shape and placed in areas of the roof that are susceptible to leaks. It helps prevent moisture from entering the home by directing water into gutters or down pipes. Without proper flashing, moisture can cause serious damage to the roof structure and interior of the home. Regular inspections are essential for keeping the roof flashing in good condition.
The flashing is usually made from aluminum, and it’s very important to check that it’s properly attached and secure. It is also a good idea to make sure it is clean and free of any dirt or debris, as this will help it maintain its seal. It’s also a good idea to inspect the flashing for signs of rust or corrosion. It’s easy for these small spots to go unnoticed, but they can eventually lead to severe problems if left unchecked.
In addition to examining the flashing, a home inspector will look at all areas where the roof meets the walls. This includes the areas around dormers, chimneys, and valleys. It is also a good idea to check the flashing in the corners of the house, as this is another area that can leak easily if not properly installed and maintained.
Often, if you have a dormer window or other protrusion on the roof, it’s necessary to install counter flashing to ensure a solid seal. In addition, if you have a roof that is surrounded by a wall or other building material, it’s critical to use step flashing and water diverters to prevent moisture penetration.
Many roofs have problems with their flashing due to improper installation. Sometimes this is because of a rush or inexperienced roofers, but other times it may be due to the type of building materials used. If roofers or contractors use roofing tar or caulk in place of flashing, this will dry out and crack over time, allowing water to penetrate the roof and cause damage.
In extreme cases, flashing can be corroded and should be replaced immediately to prevent further water intrusion into the home. Your home inspector will be able to note whether the flashing is in good or poor condition and recommend any needed repairs.
Inspect the Gutters
Gutters are designed to protect your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from the walls and foundation of the house. However, if the gutters become clogged or damaged, water can overflow and cause damage to the siding, roof, and wood support beams. Regular inspections can catch and address these issues before they become severe, saving homeowners money in the long run.
In addition to checking for clogs and debris, it is important to inspect the gutters for signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks, rust spots, loose screws, or sagging sections. Repairing these problems before they worsen can prevent further damage to the gutters, roof, and siding of the house.
While cleaning the gutters, be sure to clear clogs in the downspouts as well. Clogged downspouts can cause water to back up and wash over the shingles, causing rot and premature failure. During the inspection, also look for areas of biological growth such as moss or lichen. These can be removed with a scraper or a brush dipped in a mixture of water and bleach. Finally, make sure that the gutters are secured to the rafter and have wire strainers to block large debris from blocking downspouts or sewer lines.
Gutters are a vital part of your roofing system. It is recommended that the gutter channels should be inspected twice a year: during the spring and fall. It is a good idea to check them more often if you live in an area with many trees or intense rainfall.
Inspect the Interior
When a roof is damaged, it can lead to leaks in the building and costly structural damage. Regular inspections will prevent small problems from becoming major issues and ensure that the building is safe for occupants. This will also help the property owner budget for future repairs.
Inspectors are trained to look at every part of a structure from the foundation to the roof. They can identify a variety of potential problems that may affect the integrity of the building and its systems. For example, if a home is built on a slope, the inspector will examine the grading and drainage to determine if it can support the building and prevent flooding and erosion. They will also look at any porches, decks and balconies to ensure they are safe to use. Inspectors will also examine the condition of the gutters and downspouts to make sure they are free of clogs, holes and other damage. The gutters and downspouts are vital to ensuring that water does not pool around the foundation of the house or leak into the walls. They will also inspect the attic to ensure that the roof and insulation are free from deterioration. Inspectors will look for bare spots, deteriorating caulking and leaky seams. They will also inspect the chimney, skylights and any vents that penetrate the roof.
In addition to the structural components of a building, inspectors will also check the electrical and plumbing systems. They will also inspect the heating and cooling systems. If any problems are identified, the inspector will provide the homeowner with a report detailing the issue and recommend appropriate maintenance.
While a home buyer can perform some of these inspections on their own, a professional inspector will have a much more comprehensive view of the structure and its components. A good inspector should be a member of a reputable trade association and carry errors and omissions insurance.
If you are thinking about purchasing a new home, a professional inspection will be a valuable investment. Uncovering any potential problems early on can save you a lot of money in the long run. In addition, if you find an issue with a current home, an inspection will give you the leverage needed to negotiate a price adjustment or necessary repairs.
Inspect the Roof
A roof inspection is the most important part of any roofing maintenance. Without a roof inspection, minor problems can turn into major issues that require costly repairs or even replacement. This is why it’s imperative to have your roof inspected by a professional at least twice per year.
The roofing contractor will look for the overall condition of your roof, including the shingles and flashings. They will check to see if there are any bare spots or areas of missing shingles, as well as if the shingle color is beginning to fade or discolor. If the shingles are damaged, the roofer will take note and schedule any necessary repair work.
The roofer will also inspect the flashings, especially around chimneys and sanitary stacks. The flashings are often the source of leaks in a roof, so it is vital to inspect them thoroughly. If they are showing signs of wear and tear, it is best to replace them rather than wait for a leak to occur.
They will also inspect the ridge and soffit vents, as well as any other vents on your roof. These help to keep air flowing through the attic, which can prevent moisture build-up. They will be looking to see if the vents are working properly and whether or not they have been blocked or obstructed by debris.
If there are any repairs needed, the roofing contractor will make a list for you and perform them on your next scheduled inspection date. They will also make note of any previous repairs and double check to ensure that those were done correctly. This will help to reduce the chance of a failure due to a prior repair that was not done correctly.
While it is possible for homeowners to do a basic visual inspection of their roof, it should only be completed by those with adequate experience and the proper safety equipment. It is never a good idea to walk on the roof, as it can be extremely dangerous and can cause additional damage. The inspection should be done from the ground or, better yet, from a ladder.