Roof Maintenance and Inspection: Tips to Help You

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The roof is your home’s first line of defense against harsh weather elements. Although most North American roofs last over 20 years, routine roof maintenance and inspection help ensure their longevity.

Many homeowners wait until they notice a leak before inspecting their roofs. However, delaying maintenance can end up causing severe and costly damage to your home. You should schedule roof maintenance and inspection every spring and fall or after any storms that may cause damage. To eliminate the risk of personal injury, consider hiring a professional roof inspector for hard-to-access roof types.

Although some maintenance tasks are specific to the material of your roof, all homeowners should sweep, wash, or blow debris off their roofs regularly.

Keep reading to learn the basics of regular roof maintenance and inspection.

What is Roof Maintenance?

Roof maintenance refers to the routine inspections of vulnerable roof areas that may be susceptible to damage. Whether a roof is commercial or residential determines how often it needs to be inspected and serviced.

When to Inspect Your Roof

It is essential to catch roofing problems before they start. Inspections can help determine how old your roof is and when it will need to be replaced. Below are common reasons why you should schedule a roof inspection.

  • Missing Shingles or Leaking Roof

Water stains on your ceiling or walls signify that you need a professional roof inspection as soon as possible. A professional inspection will enable you to devise an approach to fixing any problem.

The presence of mold-compromised insulation and even structural damage may indicate that the leak has been going on for some time. If the damage requires more than a basic roof repair, you’ll need to explore alternatives for replacing your roofing system after the inspection.

  • After a Major Storm

Intense weather is one of the top causes of roof problems. If you have recently had extreme winds, hail, or flying debris in your area, it’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection. It will be difficult to spot many problems from the ground.

Does your roof have a high pitch? It is risky trying to scale such a roof on your own. Professional roof inspectors near you have the skills and equipment to assess your roof safely.

  • When Your Roof is Over 10 Years 

Based on the roofing material, all roofs have a lifespan. Its durability often depends on its exposure to the elements. Your roof will endure a lot of abuse over time, making regular maintenance essential.

As the condition of your roof is specific to your home and roofing system, it is essential to be aware of its status. Roofers recommend performing a thorough roof inspection around the halfway point of the roof’s expected lifespan. This will help notice any roofing problems early on and prevent them from becoming expensive emergencies.

  • Before You Buy a House

The roof is one of the most scrutinized parts of a home during a pre-purchase examination. A pre-purchase inspection allows you to learn about any problems and the roof’s expected remaining life span. It will give you a better idea of when you’ll need to replace the roof.

  • During Fall Each Year

Maintaining your home is the best way to ensure your home stays protected. Greenville, South Carolina, experiences all four seasons annually. Avoiding preventable emergency repairs with annual roof inspections helps save repair costs. Inspecting the roofing during fall is best before the cold winter sets in.

Importance of Roof Maintenance and Inspection

Staying on top of roof maintenance and inspection is vital for commercial and residential properties because:

  • Regular maintenance reduces long-term costs.
  • Prompt care enhances energy efficiency.
  • Maintenance increases building safety.
  • Inspection and maintenance boost property curb appeal.
  • Maintenance and repair help prevents building closures.

Roof Maintenance and Inspection Tips

If your roof is easily accessible without exposing you to danger or injury, here are a few tips to help extend your roofs durability:

    • Remove all debris: Debris, like leaves, twigs, and dirt, can retain water on your roof. Excess moisture increases the chance of mold and algae growth.
  • Keep drainage systems clear: Ponding can lead to leaks and structural damage. Therefore it’s essential to keep field drains and auxiliary drains clean.
  • Check the roof surface: Conduct a visual inspection for holes, cracks, or exposed felts. Check the roof seams for any issues.
  • Inspect roof penetrations: Roof penetrations are things like pipes and drains that protrude through the roof. Leaks often occur at roof penetrations.
  • Inspect the roof perimeter: Take a stroll around the roof’s periphery and make mental notes of any soft places, mold growth, or algae you find.
  • Evaluate the sealant: Check for sealant or caulking problems such as cracks, degradation, or crazing. Sealant failures frequently occur around penetrations and perimeter flashings.
  • Prevent leaks: If you notice roof damage during an inspection. Fix these minor flaws before they progress into severe failures.
  • Inspect your attic and ceilings: The roof covering typically conceals any leaks. Check the attic for leaks or stains.

Which Type of Roof Requires the Least Maintenance?

Although metal roofs can be the most expensive, they are also the longest-lasting and least costly to maintain. However, due to rusting, this may not be a realistic solution if you live near the seaside. A reputable roofing company can help you select the best roof type for your project.

Don’t Procrastinate Minor Roofing Repairs

After thorough roof maintenance and inspection, any minor roofing repairs should be addressed as part of your scheduled roof maintenance service. The skilled roofing crew will have the necessary equipment to repair all apparent damage. The roofer can determine if the repairs require further reinforcement.

Call Lanier Roofing and Restoration for all Your Roofing Needs

The most susceptible aspect of a building’s exterior is its roof system. Weather elements like UV rays, wind, hail, and snow affect the effectiveness of your roofing. Ensure peak roof performance through good designing, material selection, assembly, and preventative maintenance.

Our seasoned professionals can examine your roof and make repair recommendations regardless of the cause. We offer reasonable pricing for all roofing services and focus on meeting your unique requirements. Contact us to schedule a roof inspection and experience the Lanier Roofing difference.

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