As the colder weather settles in, your roof needs to be in top condition to handle the harsh winter temperatures and weather events that are in store. Without proper care and maintenance, a roof can quickly deteriorate and become subject to all types of damage, such as mold growth and roof leaks. This damage can then extend to other parts of your facility and prevent it from being safe and secure against winter and summer weather conditions.
Thus the importance for preparing your roof for winter weather! Fortunately, giving your roof the proper attention it needs is much easier than it may seem. From routine roof inspection to regular upkeep, there are a number of effective ways to keep every part of your roof in good shape. Here are some useful tips for extending the life of your roof.
Clean Regularly
If you leave your roof unattended for a long enough time, it can begin to accumulate leaves, tree branches, twigs and other forms of debris. While you may not be able to remove every unwanted object as soon as it appears, you can make a big difference in the appearance and well-being of your roof by cleaning up debris on a regular basis. If you have a low-pitched roof, you can use a leaf blower to eliminate any stray branches, twigs or leaves. For steeper roofs, it’s best to use a broom or roof rake to thoroughly clear your roof of unnecessary buildup.
Check the Gutters
While a professional roof inspection can take care of many of the issues that may appear on your roof, it’s important to be proactive in maintaining it. When giving your roof a regular checkup, be sure to pay close attention to the gutters. The gutters on your roof direct water away from your building, which can help to prevent flooding and keep roof leaks at bay. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your gutters are in proper shape throughout the year, especially before you’re expecting heavy rainfall or a big winter storm. Remove any debris from the gutters promptly to prevent water damage and to keep the rest of your roof in good condition.
Ventilate the Attic
Your attic may not come to mind when you think about proper commercial roof maintenance, but if your property has an attic, this area plays a crucial role in the well-being of your roof. When your attic isn’t properly ventilated, it can significantly shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to a host of other problems in your living space. The largest amount of damage occurs in hot weather, when the temperature of your attic can skyrocket if it isn’t ventilated correctly. As a result, your shingles and rafters can begin to buckle and crack, leading to decay. Before you schedule a roof inspection, be sure to confirm that there is proper airflow in your attic.
Look for Ice Dams
When performing routine maintenance on your roof, it’s crucial to take the time to look for any ice dams that may have appeared. Ice dams usually form when the melted snow on your roof runs down the sides and refreezes right at the edge of the roof. In order for an ice dam to form, the edge of the roof must be below freezing while the rest of it remains warm enough to melt the snow. Keep in mind that these frozen objects can rip off your gutters and loosen the shingles if they aren’t taken care of properly. Additionally, ice dams can create water damage inside the building over time, such as mold growth. If you come across any ice dams during a roof inspection, be sure to address them immediately.
Replace Damaged or Missing Shingles
If you have a shingle roof, the shingles can crack or fall off completely due to a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of damaged or missing shingles include the following:
- Impact from hail or airborne debris
- Severe temperature fluctuations
- Strong winds
- Driving rain
Regardless of what caused your shingles to break or go missing, addressing the issue promptly during a routine inspection can help you preserve the state of your roof. If you don’t have damaged shingles repaired as soon as possible, you can open you up to further issues, including water damage, structural damage and mold growth. Not only are damaged shingles dangerous, but they also negatively impact the appearance of the roof.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
Attending to your roof and maintaining it often is vital. However, in order for your roof to receive the attention and care that it truly needs, it needs to be thoroughly inspected by a professional on a regular basis. Trusting an expert to examine your roof and identify any problems can help to reassure you that it’s properly being taken care of. Moreover, a professional can call your attention to any issues that you may not have noticed during your own inspections. This process of solving problems before they become more serious can help you save a considerable amount of time and money. When you aim to lengthen the lifespan of your roof, scheduling regular checkups is crucial.
Start Enjoying a Longer Roof Expectancy Today
Extending the life of your roof is a goal that can be achieved with routine maintenance and regular inspections. The key is to be proactive and address any problems when they first appear. Whether you’re experiencing roof leaks or damaged gutters, a professional roof inspection can resolve any issue expertly and let you enjoy a stronger and more durable roof.