With life’s daily hustle and bustle, there are times when people tend to overlook common home issues. Well, we all may share the guilt in this since we lose sight of the maintenance care of the exterior part of our homes when we get busy. Moreover, the majority of our focus and concern are directed at the interior. The truth is, we must understand that the exteriors are just as important, especially since they safeguard the property’s overall structure.
Accordingly, although the standard asphalt roofing system is built to last for more than a decade, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is still highly suggesting that you should regularly inspect your roof system or perform a check-up at least twice a year, especially during the seasons of spring and fall. This being said, here are some tips for DIY roof inspections, as well as some easy maintenance task suggestions.
General checkup and restoration
As stated, general inspection at least twice a year is a must. With that, you can start by checking the attic if you have one or the ceiling itself for stains. Be alarmed if you have encountered one, as this is a strong indicator of water leakage.
Then, proceed to examine the external part of the roof for damaged or missing roof shingles, as well as for moss and mold. In addition, do not forget to check the roof bolts and nails if there are. Immediately repair or replace the missing parts to avoid leakage and even further damage.
Check for any missing or loose flashing, nails, and roof bolts. Replace and repair shingles or flashing and replace or tighten roof hardware as needed. Well, if it happens that you are not skilled in this matter, it is best to hire a professional to do the job for you.
Façade, the gutters, and downspouts
It is vital to inspect your roof’s façade as well as its rain gutters and downspouts. If there are obstructions like dried leaves in your gutters, it is best to carefully remove them since any remaining debris or particles will cause water build-up during heavy rains that will certainly cause further hassle and damage.
In addition, be sure to avoid leaning onto the gutters as you clean, as this may potentially damage them and even cause you to have a dangerous fall. Moreover, installing screens or covers on your gutters is an effective way to minimize the need and required frequency for cleaning. It’s important to have damaged or rusting components of your roofing network replaced as needed. For high-quality rain gutters, check out home centers in Utah.
Removal of mold and moss
To start, spray some cleaner and moss remover on affected parts of the roof. Check the cleaner’s packaging for instructions and follow them tediously. Then, wait for its solution to take effect before brushing away the mold and moss using a broom with soft bristles and a brush with a wide handle. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles and a power washer, as too much pressure can cause granules to wear away, leaving the shingles unprotected from harsh ultraviolet rays.
Even though the maintenance of a home may be overwhelming, leaving areas unattended, especially for major roof repairs, will lead you spending and stressing more. Moreover, always remember that preventative work will always benefit you in the long run. As the wise saying goes, prevention is better than cure.
