During storms, most roof damage comes from ice, snow, and debris accumulation. If this material is not cleaned up, it can rust and discolor your roof, weaken its structural integrity, and cause water damage.
Fortunately, regular roof maintenance can help prevent this type of damage. It can also extend the lifespan of your roof, improve energy efficiency, increase the value of your home, and provide safety and peace of mind.
Clean Your Roof
Roofs are meant to withstand the elements, but they can lose their ability to protect your home when storms damage them. Winds, rain, and hail can damage shingles and make them vulnerable to water and wood rot.
Roofing maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent this damage. A professional can clean your roof and remove mold, mildew, moss, and algae that can degrade your roof over time. Another important way to prevent storm damage is to clean your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof and create leaks. Tree limbs, furniture, and other items flying around during a hurricane can also cause damage to your roof. Trim overhanging branches to avoid this and keep them from blocking access to your roof.
Check Your Roof Deck
During severe weather, storms can cause damage to your roof, and you need to inspect it after each storm to ensure your roof is intact. If you don’t, repairs and replacements could cost you money. Winds and hail can cause water leaks, leading to widespread home damage. If the water penetrates through a damaged roof, it can cause rot and mold problems in your attic and throughout your home. For example, if you have a metal roof, look for dents in the metal that can be a sign of hail damage. It’s also a good idea to check for any rusting and separation between panels on your roof.
Inspect Your Gutters
Gutters are a crucial part of any roof’s drainage system. They channel rain and snow away from the home and its foundation, protecting it against water damage. However, gutters can quickly become damaged during a storm. Strong winds can knock down tree limbs and other debris, causing them to fall into the gutters. If this happens, much water could go back on the roof or flow down to the foundation, causing damage. Inspecting your gutters should be done at least twice a year and more frequently if you live in a storm-prone area. To do this safely, prepare a ladder, gloves, and a bucket for collecting any backed-up debris. Call a professional for repairs or replacement if you spot any signs of clogs, gaps, or missing components. Otherwise, a minor repair may be all that’s needed to keep your gutters working correctly for a few more years.
Inspect Your Fascia
A roofing component often overlooked, fascia helps protect your home from pests and excess moisture and supports the eavestroughs. It is essential to inspect your fascia regularly to ensure that it is in good shape and is not damaged. Fascia boards can be made of various materials, including wood and aluminum. They come in different shapes and sizes, but they all have one purpose: to protect your home from the elements.
If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain or storms, your fascia may be prone to moisture damage and mold growth. Water can also seep into the board if you have roof leaks or gutter clogs. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to check for signs of rot and damage on your fascia boards. For instance, if you feel comfortable on a ladder, try pushing a screwdriver into the wood in any areas where it may seem soft. This will indicate whether your fascia board is wet or rotting and will need to be replaced.
