There are many causes for a leaky roof and in most cases, it’s due to negligence or lack of maintenance.
However, things like rooftop equipment punctures, issues with seams as well as severe weather damage aren’t always in your hands so it’s important to give your roof the best chance possible to last long.
One way to avoid roof leaks is to perform a quick inspection into your roof, or better yet, hire a Minneapolis siding company to perform the inspection for you to ensure that it’s done properly.
Here are some tips from roofing professionals on steps that you can take to prevent one of the costliest forms of damage on your roof - water damage.
Replace Missing Shingles
Missing, cracked or bent shingles can easily cause leaks, which is why you should regularly check for debris on the shingles in your backyard as well as any excess single granules on your downspouts and gutters.
If you see off-colored stains on your siding and rot this could be a sign of water damage that has already started and if the shingles already look worse for wear, then call a roofing professional immediately.
Inspect the Attic Ceiling
One of the tell-tale signs of roof damage or water leaks typically first appear on the attic ceiling.
This could be in the form of discolored sheetrock, stained ceiling panels and boards, or even mold on your insulation.
All of these signs point to a leaky roof and if you notice any of them, then you must call Minneapolis roofers immediately so they can perform a professional inspection to determine the best course of action to take moving forward.
Fix Ponding Surfaces
If you notice a pool of water (or several) on top of your roof after a rainy evening then this could cause rot and even leaks.
Unfortunately, homeowners with low sloped or even flat roofs must be more vigilant as they are more likely to experience this issue compared to homes with other types of roofing systems.
Ask a professional roof contractor if your roof requires replacing or if it’s possible to save it through repairs.
Get Rid of Ice Buildup
If the area you live in experiences a significant amount of snow each year, then ice dam buildups are inevitable.
This happens due to the fact that you use various heating devices to keep your home comfortable when it’s that cold outside and the heat from inside rises to the roof, thus melting the snow in various spots.
When melted snow reaches the edge of the roof, it hardens up again, thus clogging your gutters or even damaging them by causing icicles. That’s why you should get rid of ice buildup regularly just to be on the safe side.
Clean the Gutters
Gutters are a versatile part of your home’s structure because, in addition to making your roof look good, they are also responsible for carrying rain away from the siding and roof.
That’s why you want to keep gutters clear of any debris because once they become clogged, they won’t be able to do their job properly and this will lead to moisture build-up on the surface of your roof, standing water, and eventually, leaks.
Clean your gutters at least twice per year, especially in the fall and spring, using a trowel to remove any and all collected debris. Check your gutters for rusting, leaks and see if they are twisted.