A roof can be a homeowner’s most expensive and valuable asset. It protects the contents of your home from rain, snow, hail and other types of severe weather. The roof also provides shade when the sun is at its hottest in summertime. And it also shields you from winter winds that come howling off the mountainside.
So what happens when all these benefits are suddenly snatched away? You need to take care of this problem quickly before it sets in and becomes irreversible damage! This article will show you why roofs require maintenance and how to prepare for impending roof repairs.
“Roof leaks are one of the most common issues facing homeowners today. We spend a lot of time chasing down the true source of these leaks because there are so many possibilities that need to be looked into.
When is the best time to make repairs to your roof? Most people wait too long before they decide that it’s time for a new roof. Asphalt shingles can last up to 20 years depending on their quality and location but sometimes problems like leaks and curling edges start to show up after just a few years.
Typically, roofs that are flat or made of metal or tile can last as long as 30 years with minimal repairs but some homeowners usually decide they do need to be replaced after 10-15 years.
Another reason to make roof repairs sooner rather than later is because damage can occur due to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and hail storms. These events cause a lot of stress for homeowners already, but it’s even worse if you have a fresh roof that has been damaged.
So when should you start planning for a roof repair? It is recommended that you start thinking about roof replacement 10 years before your current roof is scheduled to be replaced by the manufacturer.
What should you do to prepare for a roof repair?
- Prepare yourself for the cost. The more research you do ahead of time, the better idea you will have on what repairs need to be made and how much it is going to cost. “If you know this up front, then you won’t feel as stressed out about having a roof that is leaking or otherwise damaged,” said Hazelton.
- Stock up on supplies. If the roof repair will take a very long time then you may need to make some adjustments, such as making sure your gutters are clear of debris and moving some items from underneath the leaky area of the roof so they don’t get damaged or ruined.
- Clean up the roof and check for water damage before you make the repairs. This is to protect your home from further problems like mold, mildew and warping on items such as doors and windows. “A little bit of TLC will go a long way,” said Birk.
You should also wash away dirt, moss and mildew when you’re already up on the roof. This will give you an idea if there are any areas that need to be repaired or updated because of loose pavers or cracked or missing shingles.
- Make sure your gutters are in good condition so they can carry away water quickly and help avoid clogged drains, since debris in the gutters can be a cause for water damage to your roof.
- Get your home ready for the repairs by covering any plants or soil with plywood sheets so they don’t get ruined when you start making repairs on the roof, which could include removing old shingles and repairing damaged nail heads.
- Schedule the repair work at a time that is convenient for you, especially if your roof repair will take multiple days to complete. “If it’s possible, try not to schedule roof repairs during extremely hot or cold periods because this can cause problems with adhesives and other materials,” said Hazelton.
Conclusion
The process of roof repair is necessary for every homeowner, but it’s not always easy to find the time or money. Luckily there are some things you can do ahead of time to make sure your home and family stay safe in the event that a leak occurs or other damage becomes too severe. To prepare for impending repairs, consider stocking up on supplies like plywood sheets and cleaning up any water damage around leaks before making more permanent fixes. If this sounds intimidating, don’t worry! Our team at Roofer-Services will give you all the help you need with our expert knowledge about roofs and their maintenance needs. We’ll also work with your budget to provide solutions that fit within your means so you won’t have to sacrifice quality when replacing old