VWB Blog Roof maintenance is important for preventing big problems. The rooftop of your house is an important shell that keeps you, your family, and your valuables safe from external elements.
If your roof maintenance is lacking, it won’t be long before you start to notice problems.
Missed roof maintenance is one of the common causes of roof damage. The earlier you catch these problems, the cheaper they are to address. With that in mind, here are several common errors in roof maintenance to steer clear of.
1. Neglecting Roof Repair and Repairs
Neglecting regular roof maintenance and repairs can lead to major problems like water and wind damage, as well as premature wear of the roof and its components. This can cause costly repairs and potentially worse damage and danger to those inside the home. It’s important to have professional roof inspections done regularly and make necessary repairs whenever they are identified.
2. No Professional Help
Homeowners should always remember to check the list of local codes. This is to ensure the current installation meets the requirements. To prevent mistakes, it is best to hire a professional in a reputable roofing company who has the skills and knowledge to maintain a roof.
3. Choosing the Wrong Type of Roofing Material
Many people don’t realize that not all types of roofing materials are suitable for all regions, climates, slopes, and buildings. When selecting roofing materials, homeowners should consider factors such as the weather in their area, the slope of their roof, and the materials that their home’s structure is made from.
It is also important for homeowners to ensure that they will use the type of roofing material that is compatible with the other structures. Failing to choose the right roofing materials can lead to leaks, increased heat gain, and premature failure of the roof.
4. Ventilation Mistakes During Installation or Repair
Ventilation mistakes during installation or repair are critical, as they can result in roof degradation and costly repairs down the road. Insulated roofs can cause excess heat or moisture build-up that leads to serious damage, and improper ventilation installation can lead to condensation and attic mold. To avoid costly repairs, homeowners should ensure that adequate insulation’s installed and that the roof’s ventilated per the building code.
5. Neglecting to Clean Walkways and Gutter
This negligence can have serious consequences, such as water accumulating in the gutters and overflowing, which can cause problems with the foundation. The gutters should check to ensure that they are free of debris. Also, the walkways should clear the leaves and snow to prevent water build-up.
6. Failing to Inspect the Roof
Without a thorough examination of the roof, homeowners may be unaware of whether their roof has been damaged by wind, rain, and other elements over time. A regular roof inspection should do at least twice a year.
During the inspection, homeowners should pay attention to flashing and sealing joints, skylights, and drains. If there’s a roof issue, the homeowner should contact a professional roofing expert who can check and propose the best fix.
Recognizing and Avoiding Errors in Roof Maintenance
Owning a home comes with lots of responsibilities, and it’s important to maintain the roof. Common errors in roof maintenance can lead to costly repairs.
To avoid this, homeowners should be diligent in checking for loose shingles and missing seals. To ensure long-term roof health, it’s vital to call professionals to inspect and repair the roof.
For more DIY advice, check out some of our other articles!