Just because your roof is way up in the air doesn’t mean you have to put yourself in danger to take care of it. There are several forms of roof maintenance that don’t entail walking across steep inclines or even using a ladder. And when you take time to ensure your roof is in good condition, it’s much more likely to last longer and keep your home more energy-efficient since it’ll be easier to heat and cool.
Check for Loose Shingles
You don’t have to risk your neck climbing up a ladder just to check on your shingles. Instead, grab a pair of binoculars from the closet and take a quick stroll around your yard for an easy, up-close look. You can also pop upstairs and peer out your second-story windows to spot any missing, curled, or cracked shingles that might be hiding in plain sight. Getting these shingles replaced in a timely manner helps ensure your roof continues providing reliable protection.
Clean the Roof Edge All the Way Around the Home
This maintenance tip does involve using a ladder, but it doesn’t entail actually walking across the roof. Instead, the goal is to remove all the gunk that has built up on the roof’s edge and in the gutters. Leaves, twigs, and pine needles love to collect in these areas. And over time, they trap moisture that can rot your eaves and fascia boards. When you remove the debris, runoff from heavy rains is more likely to go into the gutters and through the downspouts, where it gets directed away from the home so it doesn’t pool around the foundation and cause issues with settling and erosion.
Inspect the Attic for Leaks
When a roof has leaks or damaged flashing, the first part of the home to show signs of trouble is often the attic. Taking time to check the attic’s rafters, joists, and floorboards every month or two is an excellent way to stay ahead of problems. If you see any water stains, damp spots, or signs of mold growth, this is a major clue to call a skilled roofer. Getting the leak repaired as quickly as possible is vital to preventing moisture from infiltrating your insulation and causing costly damage.
Check the Positioning of the Splash Blocks
Even though improperly positioned splash blocks don’t actually cause physical damage to the roof, they completely derail its drainage system. If a splash block is tilted too far back, the concentrated roof runoff gets dumped directly against the home’s foundation rather than away from it.
The massive pools of standing water can eventually erode the concrete walls and flood your crawl spaces, potentially resulting in thousands of dollars of damage. A simple way to keep your roof’s drainage system functioning properly is to check the positioning of the splash blocks once a month. They should be in an upright position with the downspouts emptying directly onto them.
These tips, along with routine professional maintenance, can help your roof stay in great condition for years to come. If you have concerns or require roof repair services, contact North Creek Roofing in Mill Creek, WA.
