Roofs are expensive, and even the smallest leaks can cause major problems, so you
want it to last. The best way to extend the life of your roof is to perform semi-annual
inspections and identify and address problems as they occur.
Because of their location roofs get more abuse from the elements than other part of the
house. What looked fine in the spring has spent the past few months being rain-soaked
and sun-baked. Now that the weather is starting to cool down, go up there and take
another look. Be sure to set your ladder solidly on stable ground (don't use a stepladder
to get to the roof). , apply sun-protection, and drink plenty of water, then get ready to
clean, inspect, & repair.
shingles. If bad shingles cover less than 20% of the roof, simply replace them, or have
them replaced by a pro.
More Roofing...
How to estimate roofing material.
want it to last. The best way to extend the life of your roof is to perform semi-annual
inspections and identify and address problems as they occur.
Because of their location roofs get more abuse from the elements than other part of the
house. What looked fine in the spring has spent the past few months being rain-soaked
and sun-baked. Now that the weather is starting to cool down, go up there and take
another look. Be sure to set your ladder solidly on stable ground (don't use a stepladder
to get to the roof). , apply sun-protection, and drink plenty of water, then get ready to
clean, inspect, & repair.
- Remove all debris that has collected on the roof, including around chimneys and
other roof penetrations. Debris can collect and retain moisture, leading to the
deterioration of your roofing materials.
- Trim branches and shrubs that are touching your
- home. They can provide a pathway for bugs and
rodents as well as excess moisture entering the house.
- Remove dead branches that may fall on your home.
shingles. If bad shingles cover less than 20% of the roof, simply replace them, or have
them replaced by a pro.
- Examine flashing around chimneys, vents, valleys, skylights and roof edges.
Flashing is the last defense against moisture intrusion at these vulnerable spots.
The flashing should be free of damage, lie flat, and be surrounded by shingles that
are also free of damage and laying flat. If flashing is damaged, replace it.
- Remove any caulking and sealant that is weather-worn or cracked. Clean the area
with a brush and apply new caulking.
- Remove debris from gutters and downspouts. Haul up a hose or bucket of water
and test the gutters. Make sure the downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away
from your foundation walls.
- Examine fascia and soffit boards, and the eaves. Areas of deterioration or flaking
paint on eaves can indicate a problem with the gutters. Inspect and repair gutters
around these areas. Sand and repaint the eaves as necessary.
- If the eaves are soft or rotting they may allow rain into your attic or the tops of your
walls! This moisture problem can become very serious very quickly, so be sure to
replace damaged fascia and soffit boards! If you live in a hurricane-prone region,
extend the fascia so it terminates below the underside of the soffit.
More Roofing...
How to estimate roofing material.
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| Safety Tip Set up an extension ladder with the base 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet the ladder reaches up--that's 3 feet at the base for a 12-foot ladder, or roughly a 75-degree angle. |
| Building Terms Glossary of Construction and Building Definitions |
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