The roof on your house is one of your home’s toughest-working systems and this winter’s high winds, driving rains and heavy snowfalls has no doubt caused it to take a beating. Dale’s Remodeling recommends the following four-step process to inspect your roof and help you identify problems and potential solutions before serious damage is done.
1. Inspect the exterior. Take advantage of a dry day and inspect your entire roof for loose tiles, warped shingles and detached flashing. Be sure to recruit a family member or neighbor to be your spotter and ensure that you get up and down safely.
Solution: If you find damage, make plans to replace the shingles and reattach flashing. You should also call a roofing professional to do a more thorough roof inspection. Some roofing companies will perform the inspection for free, while others may charge around $200.
2. Inspect the interior attic space. Look for damaged wood and any indications of water penetration. The presence of mold can indicate poor ventilation; wet building materials; or an improper ventilation. Mold can cause potentially hazardous living conditions, not to mention property depreciation and/or structural damage.
Solution: If you find any indication of moisture, call a roofing contractor for recommendations and repairs if needed. They may need to clear out the affected insulation blocking soffit vents. Other times, an electric attic fan and humidistat is necessary. A pro can also seal holes, light, or pipe penetrations, or redirect exhaust vents.
3. Look for moss. Moss thrives on roofs that face north and areas that see little sun. Moss dramatically reduces the lifespan of your roof by trapping moisture and causing wet shingles to rot.
Solution: Brush off the moss with a large broom. Then apply a moss remover specifically formulated for roofs. If you’re more comfortable hiring a professional, a moss removal specialist can offer a safe, quick alternative.
4. Check and clean your gutters. Inspect your gutters for blockage. A blocked gutter can force water to back up and sit on your roof. Also, look for any cracks, holes and sags.
Solution: Clean out gutters by scooping debris into a trashcan. Rinse the interior of the gutter with a hose and use gutter repair compound to fix any cracks and holes. For sagging gutters, add or replace gutter hangers in areas where needed.
For a roof consultation or more information, call Dale’s at 503.370.7609 or visit www.dalesremodeling.com.
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