Four Important Maintenance Steps For Your Roof During Summer
Posted on: 20 July 2023
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Summer is a good time to have your roof checked and maintained, but the high heat can also cause problems of its own. Here are four maintenance tips for keeping your roof in good shape during summer and preparing it for the winter to come.
Inspect Roofing Material
Summer's more temperate weather makes it a good time to inspect your roofing materials for damage, such as missing or curling shingles, chipped or cracked tiles, and rusting metal. Having any repairs done during this time is more advantageous, as it will head off any more expensive repairs once it starts raining or snowing.
High heat can also cause wear on your roof by causing the expanding and contracting of your roofing materials, so keep an eye on your roof as summer progresses, especially if your roof is starting to get old.
Repair or Replace Insulation
Insulation is important for your roof and home during all parts of the year. During winter, proper insulation can prevent problems like ice dams that can end up causing water damage, and during the summer, it can keep your home noticeably cooler. Check your attic insulation for any signs of damage or wear, such as sagging or sections of insulation that are falling away from the roof. If you've had previous water damage in your home, some insulation may also have been affected and will need to be replaced.
Check Sealants
Sealants can also wear down over time, especially in direct sunlight, and it's worth checking them out during the dry months to make sure they're in good shape for winter. This primarily involves caulking around things like your chimney and plumbing vents, but this is also a good time to check the state of your flashing to make sure it's not damaged and that no nails or other fasteners are missing. Old and worn sealants should be patched up or replaced before winter.
Get it Cleaned
Getting your roof and gutters cleaned is one of the best maintenance steps to take, especially before the wetter months. Make sure your roof is free of debris like leaves and branches, and clean out your gutters to ensure proper water flow. Double-check the position of your downspouts to make sure they lead well away from your home's foundation, and if you aren't sure if the downspouts themselves are clean, run some water down the gutters to make sure they drain properly and without leaks. If there are any leaks, or if parts of the gutters are sagging, this is a great time to have them fixed.
Contact a roofer for more information about roof maintenance.