As a homeowner, you know that the roof is one of the most vital features of the structure. Without a properly working roof, your home is prone to costly repairs and extensive damage. You need to care about the stability and functionality of this part of your home. Here are a few things you need to know about your home’s roof.
Roofs Require A Lot Of Upkeep
Many homeowners take for granted their roofs. They don’t think about them until there is an issue, such as a major water leak. However, you need to pay attention to your home’s roof. It is the first line of defense between your family and the outdoor elements. By ignoring fundamental maintenance issues, you could be setting yourself up for big repair bills down the road.
You can do simple things to maintain the roof. You should always look for signs of deterioration, such as roof rot. Rotting wood and shingles are very serious problems. When leaves fall on the roof, they can lead to algae and moss developing on the surface. In turn, those conditions create a moisture barrier that starts the rotting process. If you don’t take care of the rotting leaves, the roof will leak water and spread throughout your home’s structure.
Clean gutters are another vital step to maintaining a roof. While clogged gutters can be an eyesore, they can also cause damage. Leaf debris could accelerate wear and tear on the gutter system. Plus, those leaves and branches encourage mold growth. If that wasn’t enough bad news, gutters often break if they are weighed down with debris and other materials. When you don’t clean your gutters, they could eventually break away from your home and cause hundreds of dollars in damage.
Spotting Problems
At the very minimum, you need to be aware of any problems with your roof. While you might be tempted to grab a ladder and check for yourself, leave that job to the professionals. From the ground, you can do a visual inspection of the roof. Look for signs of deterioration around the boots and chimney near your home’s ventilation tubes.
Shingles are usually the first components that show signs of damage. If there is any discoloration or cracked shingles, that is a sign that you need to call out a professional roofer. You will want to look for any loose nail heads. Any uplifted nails mean that you have loose shingles on your roof. These signs could be a warning that your roof needs some attention.
Get Your Roof Inspected
Many reputable roofing companies will come out to inspect your roof. It doesn’t hurt to have the roof inspected if you just bought your home or can’t remember when it was serviced. A professional roofing contractor will take the time to spot any issues. With a professional inspection, you can get a clear picture of the current state of your roof and decide if it needs any repairs.
Skip The DIY Roof Repairs
If you feel that you can handle a roof repair, you might want to think again. It is never a good idea to tackle a roof repair by yourself. It is a dangerous job when you are at the top of the roof. You could trip and fall off the roof, leaving you with serious injuries. Along with that, you can even cause more damage if you try to go the do-it-yourself route. Make sure to prevent any hassles and call a roofing professional.
Roofs Will Need To Be Replaced
Roofs typically last for about 25 years. After that time, you will need to replace it. As a homeowner, you should set money aside and anticipate a roof replacement in the future. If you have any unique materials, like metal or clay, those replacements are more expensive. However, when the roof is replaced, it has better longevity than those roofs made with traditional materials.
Think Again Before Going Solar
Solar roofing panels are on the top of everyone’s mind. They can save you money and help the environment. However, not all roofs can handle the retrofit. You will want to make sure your roof is stable enough for the panels. Solar shingles make a great option if you want a new roof with energy-saving panels.
Protect Your Home With Timely Roof Repairs
When your roof fails, there is plenty at stake. Mold growth, structural issues, and all types of problems can occur when the roof is damaged. Don’t put off those repairs. Minor repairs are affordable, especially when compared to an entire replacement project.
Budgeting For Roofing Costs
A new roof replacement can be an expensive investment. You can plan for the future so that the costs do not blindside you. It is easy to estimate the costs of a repair, especially if you know when it was replaced.
You need to know how long the roof has been on your home. After that, subtract that number from the expected costs of a new roof. Finally, divide that number by the months that the roof should typically last. With that figure, you will know how to save for every month.
Find The Right Contractor
Before facing an emergency, you need to find a reputable contractor for your roof. Make sure to ask for recommendations. You can always check the Better Business Bureau’s ratings to ensure that the contractor is bonded and licensed. It is always good to get a few references from the company. If the bid is too good to be true, you should think twice. You don’t want to overpay for work, but remember that quality materials and workmanship come at a higher price tag.
With these tips, you know all the essential parts of taking care of your roof. If you ever have any questions, reach out to a professional contractor.
We Can Help With Your Roof
If you need a reliable roofing contractor, make sure to contact RGB Construction. We have the experience to keep your roof in its best shape for many years to come. You can schedule a consultation by calling 856-264-9093.
