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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.
ISSUES THAT CAN BE AVOIDED WITH REGULAR ROOF MAINTENANCE
The condition of your roof is important for the protection and efficiency of your property. As your roof gets older, its ability to withstand the elements decreases. When this occurs, not only is your building more difficult to heat in winter and cool in summer, but water, wind, and snow can cause damage to your roof, walls, and equipment.
Thankfully, there are some common issues that can be avoided if you perform some regular roof maintenance tasks. In fact, it’s possible to even prolong the life of your roof.
Cracked roofing materials
Over time, all roofing systems will break down. Flat-roofed buildings are subject to extreme conditions, such as sun, rain, snow, and ice. Cracks in bitumen or EPDM roofs allow water and moisture to infiltrate the system, causing damage to the insulation and decking. In the winter months, that moisture can freeze and crack, resulting in additional damage.
Clogged drains
Clogged drains on your roof can lead to ponding water, which could create seepage into your roofing system and walls. Drains can easily get clogged with dirt and debris, leaves, plant matter or loose roofing materials. Eave troughs and downspouts also need to be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid stoppage.
Loose flashing
The flashing around the edges of your building can become loose over time — especially in high-wind areas. When this occurs, rain and moisture can easily penetrate under your roof and along the top edges of your walls. Call a roofing professional to repair roof flashing as soon as it comes loose, becomes damaged or displaced.
Ponding water
If your roof wasn’t properly designed and installed, or if it has settled over time, certain areas can allow for water accumulation. When water doesn’t flow off your roof correctly, it can eventually cause swelling and cracking of your bitumen or asphalt, especially in winter.
Punctures
In single-ply roofing membranes, even a small puncture can cause a leak. This issue is common if you frequently have contractors on your roof for installing or inspecting HVAC equipment or other rooftop equipment. Small tears in roofing membrane can grow quickly, so they require prompt attention.
Regular roof inspections help to ensure that your roof remains leak-free. By educating yourself on common roof issues, you will be better equipped to notice warning signs and begin treatment in order to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Preventative roof maintenance can help to protect the financial value and integrity of your property.
Depending on the configuration of your roof, you might lose a couple of shingles before you even notice it. But the more common problem is to have lifted or damaged shingles due to extreme weather. High winds can pry the metal flashing and tiles up, destabilizing the roof and potentially inviting in everything from water to pests. Too much sun can cause cracking or breakage over time.