Roof maintenance is a big part of keeping your home in tip top shape.
Even though it is literally hanging over our heads everyday, we often don’t think about the roof. Even the best roof, however, won’t stand up to the elements forever, especially without proper maintenance and care. There are some common mistakes people make when caring for their roofs, and here are five big ones that you need to be aware of.
Pressure Washing
Yes, cleaning your roof is very important. It can enhance the curb appeal of your home and prevent the growth of harmful mold and mildew. And yes, roofs are very strong and they stand up to a seasonal onslaught of wind, rain, sleet and snow. However, a pressure washer is overkill. The intense, focused force of the water from a pressure washer can actually do damage to the roof and create even bigger problems. Opt instead for a trusty hose.
Re-roofing
Eventually you may need to repair or replace the shingles on part or all of your roof. This is an important process, and one best left to the professionals, especially if your roof is steep or more than two stories high. However, if you do decide to do it yourself, don’t re-roof over the existing shingles. These need to be scrapped off and disposed of so that the new shingles can seal properly.
Inspect Your Attic
Most of us know that we need to inspect the roof periodically for signs of damage or decay, but you also need to remember to check from the inside. Small leaks and holes may not be visible from the exterior, but the signs of water damage inside are a surefire way to know you have a problem.
Inspect The Roof
Incase you didn’t know you had to inspect the roof, now you do. You should be checking it out at least once a year to make sure there is no significant damage. This includes torn shingles of course, but also applies to any that are just loose or flap a little. If water can get under the shingle, it can cause a problem. You should also make sure you inspect your roof after heavy storms, since the branches that come down can cause damage that gets worse over time if it’s not repaired.
Too Much Insulation
Wait there’s such a thing as too much insulation? In most homes, you are better off with the attic being insulated, that is for sure, but don’t pack it full to bursting. There needs to be space for some air movement and there needs to be ventilation in the attic or you could still end up with mold and mildew issues.
Contact Blair Construction Today for a Free Evaluation of Your Roofing and Its Ventilation System!
For all of your roofing ventilation needs performed by professionals you can trust, contact Blair Construction. We have been serving our valued Maryland customers for almost thirty years and look forward to giving your roof the care it needs for years to come. Contact us online or give us a call at (410) 729-0777 to get a free in-home estimate. To see examples of our work and get updates on what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Houzz.