Working at Height: Installing a New Roof

Posted on: 20 April 2017

As a homeowner, there are aspects of your home that would require scheduled maintenance such as your HVAC system, your hot water system and more. An area that tends to be overlooked, despite the high risk of damage that is exposed to, is the roof. As such, it is not uncommon to find that leaks and other structural damages take homeowners by surprise, as they have not been paying attention to the condition of the roof. These structural damages can eventually lead to other problems such as mould in the home, damaged walls and even compromised foundation. Luckily, leaks and other roofing problems can be prevented with the following simple tips.

Routinely clean out your gutters and the downspouts

Gutters are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring any water is redirected away from both your roof as well as your home. Some homeowners may assume that since gutters are always coming into contact with water that they will automatically be self-cleaning. The truth of the matter is that debris such as leaves, twigs and more can become stuck on the surface of gutters, leading to clogs and blockages. If this organic matter is not removed from the gutters, precipitation will start backing up your gutters posing the risk of damage to the side of your roofing, the exterior walls of your home and your residence's foundation. It is prudent to ensure your gutters and downspouts are cleaned regularly as a DIY project, or you could hire a professional roofer to do this for you.

Have the roof inspected for potential problems

One thing to note about roof repairs is that they do not come about overnight. They stem from underlying issues that have been left unchecked, giving them ample time to become aggravated. It is best to have your roof occasionally inspected by a professional to avoid extensive repairs. Some of the potential damages that the roofer will look for during an inspection include any shingles that may be damaged or missing, the growth of mould or algae on your roof and any potential signs of water damage on the ceiling. The roofer can then give you a report on which repairs need to be done post haste.

Have the flashing checked for damages due to ageing

The flashing refers to the seal that is installed around accessories on your roofing such as the chimney, skylights, vents and more. If the flashing has become compromised, it increases the chances of leaks developing in your roof. Since flashing is bound to age and peel with time, it is best to have it checked regularly and replaced as needed.