Once summer starts to wind down, you’re reminded that the lengthy wet season is on its way back. The following are the five best ways you can prepare your roof for cooler months.
Airflow and Insulation in the Attic
The sun shines on your roof during the day, warming the air in your attic. The heated air condenses, when there are a lack of vents at the ridges, gables, and soffits of your roof. This results in moisture damage to the supports of your roof, as well as the possibility of mold or decay.
In higher altitudes, heat will cause ice formation, which can lead to leaks especially when snow collects on your roof.
Furthermore, if the hot air cannot escape, it will infiltrate into your home and, unfortunately, overheat it. As a result, you’ll be forced to use your air conditioner more than necessary. This is why insulating your attic is critical. It will help your home to be more energy-efficient and lessen the likelihood of roof leaks, in the event of a rainstorm.
Look for any Flaws or Signs of Decay
Inspect your clean roof for any missing shingles or those with broken, bent, or frayed edges. For a better view, try using binoculars and take a look at your roof from the ground. You can, of course, climb up to your roof for an even better view.
Examine the flashing, surrounding your chimney, vent stacks, and skylights, for any damage. When your roof is leaking, these are the first places you should inspect. Self-repairing flashing may not be in your best interest. It will not yield the desired outcomes.
Get Rid of Any Debris
Twigs, branches, pine needles, leaves, and other debris should be removed from your roof’s surface and gutters. Even small particles of debris will trap moisture and more than likely rot or mold, causing your roofing material to deteriorate.
If you’re comfortable and accustomed to walking on your roof, don’t hesitate to brush, blow, or sweep off the debris. Be sure to give particular attention to the valleys, which are especially susceptible to water damage. To permit water to flow easily, your roof should be completely free of debris. Roofing contractors are highly qualified to treat your roof for moss and other debris, when providing maintenance and/or evaluation services.
Tidy Your Gutters
When leaves as well as debris build up in your gutter system, the downspouts can eventually clog. Additionally, water from rain will overrun the gutters, causing damage to your roof, vinyl siding, and trim. The additional load of wet leaves and rain water may cause your gutters to slide away from their anchor point and crumble.
Keep your gutters generally clear throughout the fall, to avoid these issues and unexpected repair costs. Also, after the trees around your house have been stripped of their leaves, undertake a good cleaning. You can also install gutter screens to prevent debris from collecting during the fall and winter season.
Have Your Roof Inspected by a Professional
Believe it or not, damage to your roof can quickly go from requiring a minor repair to needing a complete roof replacement. This is why it is crucial that you hire a professional to inspect your roof. Any existing roof problems that aren’t evident to the untrained eye will be revealed by an expert assessment. If a leak or other problem is discovered, making repairs, before the winter storms arrive, will ensure that your roof is ready to withstand the snow, wind, rain, and ice.
If you’re ready to replace your roof and you are looking for the best roofing contractor in Tampa, contact us via email or via phone at 813-962-7663.