Posted September 3rd, 2019 in Roofing Advice.
With another season fast approaching so are those to-do lists. It seems that as the weather changes, you find more and more things that need your attention around the house. Finding roofers in Sioux Falls, SD might be on your “honey-do list.”
Paramount Exteriors is your local exterior expert. We offer free inspections to make sure your roof is stable and in the best condition. By ensuring you check a few things, you could save yourself money and headaches down the road. Check out our list of things every homeowner should do to make sure your roof is ready for the fall.
Walk around the house, inspecting the roof for damage. Regularly checking your roof will allow you to spot changes.
Overgrown trees can cause roof damage through high winds and storms. Branches hanging over your roof can damage shingles. When the wind blows the branches rub against the asphalt and shingles.
The leaves and smaller twigs will collect in your gutters. Any moisture along with the leaves in your gutters can result in mold. The missing shingles will result in leaks. Limbs hanging over the roof in a storm can break off and land on the roof, causing damage.
Make sure your ladder is on flat, stable ground before climbing. Remove any leaves, twigs, broken branches, and moss that may have collected on your roof.
Debris piled on the roof can hold moisture on the roof. This moisture can result in moss, algae, mold, and mildew. These things can develop into roof rot, and cause leaks plus the need for repair. Roof rot is the breakdown of the shingles, underlayment, and other components of the roof due to water damage.
Do not pressure wash your roof. The pressure and water can further damage the roof, possibly removing loose or any other damaged pieces. Using a broom or other soft brush, remove any items from your roof.
Look for streaks or stains caused by water damage. These stains and stripes will be brown. Do you see new stains or streaks on your ceiling or walls? These stains are an indication that you have a damaged roof. Be aware that dark or black spots may be mold and will need additional attention.
Check your insulation in the attic. Missing or ripped insulation may be due to an animal in the space. Missing or damp insulation could be due to a leaky roof. Replace any missing or damaged insulation. Once you have repaired the roof on the outside, then you can fix the inside damage/stains.
To prevent ice dams in the colder weather, keep your attic and roof cold. Improving ventilation in the attic will help to keep it cooler, allowing the heat to escape. Ice dams are formed from melted snow.
The warm air underneath (in the attic), melts the snow, the water runs down the roof to refreeze on the cooler part of the roof, usually at the eaves. The water can accumulate under the shingles, soaking the underlayment down into the insulation of the attic.
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Keeping the gutters and downspouts clean will aid in preventing ice dams on your roof this winter. The water from the melted snow will be able to flow easily instead of building up as ice on your roof and in your gutters.
Sealant on a flat roof is a must as it collects water. A sealant on a sloped roof prolongs the life of an aging roof and helps prevent leaks.
A protective coating–elastomeric–may be added to seal your roof. Elastomeric coating is a flexible, rubber coating that resists peeling and cracking. It also reflects the harmful UV rays of the sun. Elastomeric is an affordable solution for roof leaks and works with most roofs.
Are you afraid of heights, and need an inspection? Are you worried that you missed something on your own inspection, and would like a professional opinion? Call Paramount Exteriors, your roofers in Sioux Falls, SD for your FREE inspection. We will give you peace of mind and ensure you roof is ready for fall. Bring on the pumpkin decorations!