Posted
by
Quarve Contracting
at 9:00 AM
Perhaps the recent storm that blew through the Twin Cities has you a little concerned about your roof.
It's wise to have a handle on its condition, since it's the main protective element for your home.
Many homeowners don't question the durability of their roofs until water damage occurs. When there's a leak in the home, it's often too late to simply repair the roof. A total roof replacement might be required.
The National Roofing Contractor's Association suggests that homeowners have two roof inspections done per year to maintain the safety of their home. Here in Minnesota our winters are often harsh, and we suffer from severe snow and ice storms that can lead to roof damage. A spring roof inspection is beneficial, especially after the rough winter. The other good time is just before winter, so your roof is ready to handle the season.
Having regular inspections (at least annually, if not twice per year), should reveal problems early enough to get repairs made before damage happens.
- Debris should regularly be removed from rooftops, drains, gutters and downspouts to allow proper drainage
In addition to having your roof inspected, here are a couple things you can check yourself that might suggest a new roof needs to be installed.
Checking for roof repairs begins on the inside. Check the attic for rays of light shining through the top of the house; stains and streaks on the wood structures in your attic (trusses, floor, walls, etc.) on can also indicate leaks.
Look through your files to find out what type of roof you have and when it was last replaced. An asphalt shingle roof with no roofing under it has a lifespan of 20-25 years, whereas a roof placed over existing shingles should be replaced every 20 years, if not sooner.
Check the gutters and drain spouts for roofing granules. If there is evidence that the shingles are shedding their protective coating, or shingles are already patched, it is time for a replacement.
Check the flashing around vents, skylights and chimneys. If flashing is cracked, it should be replaced to prevent water damage. Metal flashing systems last longer than tar, which is used on a lot of older homes.
Please don't attempt to fix any roofing problems yourself. This is very dangerous;
allow a professional to do it for you.
Here at Quarve we can provide competitive roofing maintenance and take care of all your roof repair and replacement needs. We have excellent customer reviews, a staff of trained and licensed roofing professionals, and all of the special equipment necessary to make the job safe. Call us today to arrange a roof inspection.
