Your home’s roof protects your family and property from the elements, including harsh summer storms and winter snow. Because it is a necessary component of a building, it’s important to invest in annual roof maintenance. During a yearly examination, you can identify problems early, before they have had a chance to worsen. This saves you money on major repairs.
Have a Roof Inspection
If you’ve recently purchased a property, your home inspector will have noted any roofing concerns in the inspection report. Refer to the report for details about issues with your roofing. The inspector will have listed problems discovered during the inspection and may have offered advice regarding repairs or replacement.
If it has been a while since you had a home inspection, contact a professional for a roof inspection. Professionals are able to notice problems and locate areas of concern.
Annual Roof Maintenance Inside Your Home
A yearly roof maintenance checkup should begin on the inside of your home. Inspect the interior of your house for the following:
- Signs of moisture on the walls can indicate a roof leak.
- Water stains on the ceiling may be due to water seeping through the roof and soaking the ceiling.
- Rot naturally occurs in areas where wood is exposed to moisture for extended periods.
- Mold may develop due to unaddressed moisture problems.
Any of the above issues can be a sign of problems with your roofing. Talk to a roofing professional to determine the best course of action.
Roof Maintenance for the Outside of Your Home
Whether or not you are working with a professional, it’s essential to inspect your home’s roof. Use a ladder to access your roof, looking for the following issues and concerns.
Missing or Broken Shingles
Areas of cracked, broken, or missing shingles are places water can seep inside your home. Damaged shingles should be replaced immediately to prevent water damage.
Look for Signs of Rot During Annual Roof Maintenance
If there is exposed wood on your roof, examine it for signs of rot. Wood rot weakens the structure and leads to permanent damage. It’s important to find areas of decaying wood and make repairs to avoid costly damage.
Solar Panels
When you installed solar panels, you added weight and pressure to your roof. Pay extra attention to parts of the roof that bear this weight for signs of damage.
Don’t Forget the Gutters
While your gutters are not technically a part of your roof, they are part of the roofing system and should be included in the maintenance of your home. Clean the gutters and use a garden hose to verify water is draining correctly. Downspouts should be pointed away from the foundation of your house.
Realistic Home Inspection Services provides inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Milwaukee area. Contact us to request our services.