A leaking roof is one of the worst things a homeowner has to deal with, especially when it’s rainy. Fortunately, with proper care and maintenance, you can prevent leaks.
As a leading roofing contractor, we have to tell you that climbing your roof to try and fix things (or even just to inspect it) is dangerous, and is best left to professionals. Still, there are several ways to help keep your roof leak-free:
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Inspect the protrusions – Inspect your roof safely on the ground with a good pair of binoculars. On a clear day, go around the house and inspect anything that sticks out from the roof: chimneys, plumbing vents, skylights, and your satellite, cable, or fiber installation. Any break in the shingles should be properly protected. If you notice broken or damaged flashing, note to have it repaired as soon as possible.
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Check the drip edges – Drip edges keep rainwater away from the fascia and diverts it into the gutters. Keep an eye out for signs of damage, rot, or small animals that may be nesting within the drip edges and have it addressed immediately.
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Check the gutters – Many homeowners think of their gutters as separate from their roofs. But gutters are actually part of the roofing system and should be treated as such. So when you inspect your roof for leaks, don’t forget to include your gutters. Look out for worn seams, sagging gutter lengths, and signs of rust. If your gutters look like it will require a new gutter installation, have it done so before the rainy season starts. Also, consider investing in aluminum gutters instead of the typical galvanized steel for better weather resistance.
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Check the roof’s general condition – Take a quick, wide look at your roof. You should be able to spot any breaks in the pattern, which would indicate loose or missing shingles and must be addressed soon.
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Check indoors – Go around every room in your home, paying special attention to the ceilings on the upper level. Water stains on the ceiling are indicative of existing leaks and will require professional attention as leaks rarely flow straight down.
Tedrick’s Roofing serves Seattle, WA and nearby areas. To know how we can make your roof leak-free, have your gutters fixed, or if you want a new skylight installed, call us today at (206) 824-3440 or (253) 499-9660. You can also fill out our contact form to set up your free, no-obligation estimate.