Roof leaks can ruin anyone’s day…
… and they can be costly to repair. With the amount of rain and storms we experience in South Florida, the chances of your roof developing a leak are much higher than the average homeowner. Often times, homeowners won’t know they have a leak until it’s already done a considerable amount of damage. So here are a few ways you can help prevent Roof Leaks:
Get A Regular Roof Inspection
The best advice for homeowners is to have your roof inspected by a professional on a regular basis. While it is good to monitor your walls and ceilings for leaks on your own, a trained professional has the ability to spot the signs of roof damage early.
Pay Attention To Roof Flashings
The highest percentage of leaks happen at flashings. Without good, tight flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights, and wall or roof junctions, water can enter a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems. Flashings should be checked as part of a regular roof inspection and gutter cleaning.
Don’t Block Ventilation
Without proper ventilation, heat and moisture build up in an attic and combine to cause rafters and sheathing to rot, shingles to buckle, and insulation to lose its effectiveness. Never block sources of roof ventilation, such as louvers, ridge vents or soffit vents. Proper attic ventilation will help prevent structural damage caused by moisture and mold, increase roofing material life, reduce energy consumption and enhance the comfort level of the rooms below the attic.
Maintain Gutters And Downspouts
Gutters play an important role in helping to protect your roof from water damage. If your gutters are clogged, water can back up under the shingles (or other roofing materials) and seep into the interior. Gutters and downspouts that are full of debris will not only cause water to back up under your roof shingles, but they can be damaged beyond repair or even torn off a house or building. Keeping your gutters clean can help you avoid roof leaks.
Keep Trees And Bushes Away From Your Home
When trees and high bushes are too close to your home, many problems can occur. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from homes and buildings to eliminate damp, shaded areas, and gutters should be kept clean to ensure good drainage. Tree branches touching a roof will scratch and gouge roofing materials when the branches are blown by the wind. Falling branches from overhanging trees can damage, or even puncture, shingles and other roofing materials. Leaves on a roof system’s surface retain moisture and cause rot, and leaves in the gutters block drainage.
Immediately Replace Missing or Torn Shingles
The key to a roof system’s effectiveness is complete protection. When shingles are missing or torn off, the roof structure and home interior are vulnerable to water damage and rot. The problem is likely to spread to nearby shingles which are easily ripped or blown away. Missing or torn shingles should be replaced as soon as possible.
Just like preventive maintenance on your vehicle, it’s better to keep your roof in good condition rather than wait for a serious problem to occur. Having an annual maintenance plan allows your roof to maintain it’s health and integrity while you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your investment is being protected.
