Your home’s roof is a significant feature protecting your property from the exterior world. Therefore, it needs to be monitored and well maintained. Failing to do so could cause leaks and other damage. Below, the pros from Forever Builders, one of the leading remodeling companies San Diego homeowners trust for exceptional service at affordable rates, explain some common reasons roofs leak and signs your roof may need to be replaced.
Aging
A well-maintained roof will generally last 20 years, but it could need replacement years before, depending on its condition. Fluctuating weather can cause the roof’s materials, such as asphalt shingles, to deteriorate over time. As the roof ages, the products it’s made of could break, crack, dry out, and lose their granules, preventing them from shedding water, leading to more leaks and the need for replacement.
Clogged Gutters
The most common way for rain or melted snow to be collected and routed away from the home is via the gutters. However, when debris and other items, such as leaves, clog the gutters, the water typically backs up, resulting in leakage. Therefore, it’s vital to keep your gutters clean and free of blockage.
Using a leaf blower is one of the safest ways to clean gutters. You can also tighten the screws in the gutter spikes and check for holes or cracks that debris could find its way through. In addition to the inside of the gutters, it’s necessary to clean the outside and replace the pipes as often as needed.
How to Maintain the Roof
Although there are countless reasons a roof can leak, from aging to chimney damage or condensation in the attic, there are ways you can keep your property in good shape. For instance, trimming your trees near the roof can lower the risk of leaks and other issues. Although trees add appeal to the yard, during storms and other bad weather conditions, the branches could come tumbling down and leave a devastating hole in your roof.
Always remove debris from the roof, such as sticks, leaves, and small limbs. It’s vital to monitor the inside and outside of the home, checking for damage like cracks or water stains at the lower level of the property as well as broken and missing shingles. Removing moss and mold could keep your roof well maintained and reduce the risk of leaks.
What to Consider
When fixing a vent boot or a small leak on your roof, you can use a caulk gun and other essential products, such as roofing cement and silicone caulk. However, you must first clean the area thoroughly, which includes removing damaged and loosened materials. Failing to do so could prevent the cement from being applied and spread evenly.
Speak with a professional roofing contractor, who can step in to fix the problems and reduce the risk of setbacks. These contractors have the equipment, knowledge, and experience to complete the job correctly the first time. After your roof is fixed or replaced, you could ask the professionals about the most common dangers to avoid and strategies that lower the risk of another roof leak.
Whether their home projects involve roof repair, bathroom remodeling, or a full home remodel, homeowners can rely on the team from Forever Builders for outstanding workmanship and exceptional service at affordable rates. From planning to completion, we’ll help you create the beautiful home you’ve always dreamed of. To find out more about our outstanding roofing, renovation, and remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today.