Whether you have a new or existing roof, it is important to regularly inspect it for damage. This can help you catch small problems before they become major repairs. Additionally, regular inspections can prolong the life of your roof.
Check for cracks in your roof membrane. Damage to this membrane can indicate structural stress in your roof. This can be caused by severe weather events, such as winter cold in northern regions or direct sunlight in western locations. It can also indicate the need for a roof replacement.
Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris. Debris can block water flow and cause damage to the shingles or gutters. Clean gutters help prevent water from backing up. The debris can also block drainage lines, creating localized ponding. It is also important to clean out gutters before a storm, as heavy snow can sit on the roof and cause it to collapse.
Trim tree branches that may fall onto your roof, causing damage to your roof or critters. Debris can also cause algae growth. This can be prevented by using preventative products, such as zinc control strips. Trimming branches away from the roof helps keep the roof free of damage during storms.
You may want to consider installing gutter guards. This helps keep debris out of the gutters, which can prevent water from rotting the fascia. If the gutters are not cleaned on a regular basis, you may find yourself in need of a gutter repair in a few years.
If you have a metal roof, make sure it is properly maintained. A metal roof is particularly vulnerable to corrosion and the resulting water damage. If it is not, you may want to consider a metal roof replacement.
If you are in the market for a new roof, make sure it has a warranty. While warranties are not always comprehensive, they can cover small repairs and provide proof of roof maintenance. It is also important to have an experienced contractor make your roof repairs.
Having a qualified roofing professional inspect your roof on a regular basis is essential to the longevity of your roof. A professional roofer will be able to find and fix issues before they become major repairs. A qualified roofing professional will also be able to recommend preventative products.
Be sure to keep records of routine inspections, as well as any repairs that need to be done. A detailed maintenance checklist can help you to keep track of any repairs. This checklist can also be used as a specification for a bid solicitation.
Keep a maintenance checklist in a place where future inspectors can easily access it. This can serve as proof of roof maintenance and prevent you from missing important elements of your roof maintenance plan. A maintenance checklist can also be a useful tool for roofing professionals to use.
Lastly, consider using preventative products, such as zinc control shingles, to protect your roof from moss, algae, and other common roof hazards. These products can be installed by a professional, or you can do it yourself.
