Welcome to Family Roofing

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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

FALL ROOF MAINTENANCE

Fall is the perfect time to inspect, repair, and prepare your roof for the colder months ahead.  The weather condition is often more stable in the fall, which means you have less chance of rain or snow that may disrupt your roofing project.  Moreover, fall is the ideal time to spot potential problems with your roof so you can address the problems before they escalate.

Inspect Your Roof for Damage

Spring and summer storms can quickly wreak havoc on your roof.  If you don’t identify and repair the damage during fall, you will likely deal with bigger issues during the cold season.  For instance, damaged shingles may allow water to seep into your home, which may lead to mold and mildew growth.  Ice dams can also form on your roof during winter, causing even more damage.

Therefore, contact a roofing expert to inspect your roof for cracks, dents, and missing shingles.  Also, check for any signs of water damage, such as stains on your ceiling.  The roofing specialist will make the necessary repairs to ensure that your roof is in top condition.

Clear Debris From Your Gutters

Gutters play an essential role to protect your property from water damage.  The component directs rainwater and melting snow away from your roof, foundation, and walls.  However, gutters are prone to clogs from leaves, sticks, and other debris.  The clogs block the flow of water, which results in water backing up and overflowing. Consequently, the water may lead to severe damage to your home’s exterior and foundation.

Let a roofing professional inspect and clean your gutters.  The expert has the necessary tools and equipment to remove the clogs quickly.  In addition, the professional will install gutter guards to prevent future clogs.

Trim Trees Near Your Home

Trees benefit the environment but may pose serious threats to your roof.  For example, leaves and branches can fall on your roof and damage the shingles and gutters.  In addition, trees can grow too close to your home and scrape the roof when they sway in the wind.  Overhanging branches can also break and fall on your roof during a storm.  In addition, the broken branches can puncture holes in your roof, resulting in water damage.

So, trim any trees near your home to prevent potential problems.  In addition, remove any dead or dying trees on your property, as they can fall and damage your roof.

Clean the Roof

Gutters are not the only roof components that need cleaning.  Algae, mold, and mildew can grow on the surface of your roof and cause extensive damage.  Moreover, debris holds moisture, which can lead to the deterioration of your roof shingles.  You can clean the roof yourself with a hose and some elbow grease.  However, if you lack the skills and experience, leave the job to a roofing professional.

Inspect the Attic

Your attic helps to insulate your home and prevent heat loss. However, the space can also cause severe problems without adequate ventilation.  For instance, a poorly ventilated attic can cause ice dams on your roof.  The dams block the flow of water, which can lead to water damage and leaks.

To avoid these issues, make sure that your attic has proper ventilation. Also, check for any signs of water damage, such as stains on the ceiling or floor. If you notice any problems, contact a roofing professional to make the necessary repairs.

Inspect the Roof Flashings for Faults or Damage

Roof flashing is an essential component of your roof.  Flashing helps seal the spaces between the joints of the roof which is important for keeping water out.  Over time, roof flashing can develop small holes or can become corroded in different spots.  Tiny holes can usually be plugged with a roofing cement.  However, larger sections of damage may require a new section of flashing. Also, check to make sure that the flashing is not pulling away from the roof or leaving gaps where water could seep through.

Replace Old, Worn, or Broken Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a highly popular roofing material because of its durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance.  However, like any roofing material asphalt shingles can succumb to old age and poor weather conditions.  In time, asphalt shingles often develop bald spots which reduces their ability to protect your home.  They may also warp, curl at the edges, break, or come loose and slide off of your roof. If you have asphalt shingles that are damaged or missing, have them replaced long before winter.

Examine Metal Roofs for Leaks and Other Damage

Metal roofs have a long lifespan if properly cared for and have energy efficient properties that make them an attractive roofing material option.  Of course, metal can also suffer damage from falling tree limbs, harsh weather conditions, and natural wear and tear.  Metal roofs are also susceptible to corrosion, pitting, and gapping at the seams which allows water to seep through.

Just like asphalt and wood shake roofs, metal roofs should be carefully inspected in the fall to look for leaks and other possible signs of damage.  Also check for damage that could be hidden under the metal roof.

Completing these tasks each fall will improve roof longevity.

During your fall roof maintenance, the top priorities are debris removal (of course!) plus:

• Draining system clearing

• Material Inspection

• Roof penetrations inspection

• Identifying any potential problem areas

• Minor repairs and sealing

After the inspection, your roofing professional should discuss with you any damaged coverings, cracks, missing materials, and other issues that need to be repaired before freezing temperatures will make them worse.  You should also receive a list of recommended next steps and information about any items of concern that need monitoring.  All recommendations should be backed up with photos and include price quotes.

A minimum of two roof maintenance inspections per year is typically recommended, with the second-most beneficial time being in the spring.