Check the soffit and fascia. They protect the walls and roof from moisture.
If a leak is detected, enlist help from someone in the attic or crawlspace to soak the roof with a garden hose. It will help pinpoint the problem and find the source of the leak. This step should be done regularly. To learn more, visit https://www.fresnoroofcompany.com/.
Roof flashings are the metal pieces that wrap around areas like chimneys, vent pipes, skylights and other roof penetrations. They help seal off water and moisture that can damage a home’s structure, insulation or interior. If these flashings are not sealed properly, they can create moisture intrusion and cause mold, ruined drywall or rot in wood components of the house. Inspect the flashings for rust, corrosion, holes, cuts or missing portions. Also look for sagging or missing shingles, moss or fungus, and areas where water has pooled or are leaking.
Flashings are a critical part of a roof and should be checked on an annual basis. Leaks tend to originate in these areas because of the constant stress they’re under due to thermal movement, differential movement, UV degradation and other factors.
When flashings are not properly sealed, it’s common for the caulk to peel away or become loose over time. If this happens, it’s important to replace the caulk and make sure that it’s well sealed. You should also check the flashings for exposed edges or metal, which can rust over time.
It’s also important to inspect the flashing around chimneys and vent pipes, as this is often where leaks occur. During a re-roofing job, it’s usually best to replace the flashing rather than try and repair or reuse old flashing, which could deteriorate further and cause leaks in the future.
Most chimney leaks are caused by poorly installed flashing, especially at the corners. If you aren’t comfortable doing a DIY roof flashing installation, you can have a roofing professional do it for you. If you do decide to do the work yourself, start by removing any shingle covering or flashing that is damaged or worn out. Use a chisel to gently pry up the shingle or flashing. Carefully remove any tar or other petroleum-based products from the flashing, as these can degrade over time and cause leaks.
Once the damaged flashing is removed, you can either cut a piece of step flashing to fit and bend it into place or cut a piece of corrugated aluminum that has been pre-bent with a 45-degree angle. Using tin snips, cut a line from an outside corner to the center fold and then bend it tightly around the corner. Secure the flashing in place with roofing cement.
Inspect the Gutters
Gutters serve an important function, protecting roof surfaces, siding and the foundation from water damage. During a roof inspection, gutters should be checked to ensure that they are functioning properly. Gutters should be free of dents, cracks and blockages and that the downspouts are clear of obstructions. Downspouts should be positioned to direct water 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation of a structure. This will prevent moisture from saturating the soil and wicking into walls and rotting wood.
Gutter debris, such as leaves and twigs, can easily clog drains and lead to roof surface deterioration. Gutters should be cleaned regularly, especially after heavy storms. It is also a good idea to install eavestrough protectors, which are metal meshed grates that can help keep debris from collecting in gutters.
Leaks can sometimes occur where the gutter sealant has worn off, so it is important to check these areas on a regular basis. These leaks may be repairable with a little stripping and new sealant, but it is important to address these issues before they get out of hand. It is also a good idea to inspect the gutters for rust, which can often be seen as pitting on the metal gutters.
During a roof maintenance inspection, the gutters should be looked for signs of hail damage. It is often difficult to see hail damage from the ground, but a roofer can look at gutters and downspouts for dents, cracks and other signs of damage. They can also check for downspouts that are leaking or directing water toward the house, as this can lead to foundation problems.
In addition to checking the gutters for damage, a roofer should also inspect them for proper slope and drainage. They should be inspected for leaks at joints, seams and corners. They should also be inspected for rusted or loose nails, which can cause leaks. It is a good idea to double check previous repairs on a roof maintenance inspection, as these are often the first things to fail.
During a roof maintenance inspection, it is important to be sure that all flashing and penetrations are fully sealed. This will protect the interior of a building from moisture and ensure that all structural components are secure. It is also important to inspect for any leaking spots inside the building, such as mold, mildew or water stains on ceilings and walls.
Inspect the Soffit
The soffit is the area beneath the roof overhang, shielding your home’s rafters from weather damage. Aside from protecting your home, the soffit also helps with ventilation and adds a finished look to the edges of your house. As such, it is an important part of your roof that needs regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that it continues to perform its critical functions. The soffit should be inspected for signs of damage and other issues, which can lead to problems that affect other parts of your home.
If you notice cracks or gaps in your soffit, it is time to repair them right away to avoid further damage to the structure of your home. In addition, clogged soffit boards can block airflow and create moisture that can lead to rot or mold. You should also keep an eye out for any signs of pest infestation in your soffit, such as droppings or nests. These pests include raccoons, squirrels, birds, bees, and wasps, and they can cause serious structural damage if left untreated.
Moreover, the soffit should be inspected for any damage to the rafters and trusses that support your roof. If you have a soffit with no vent, it can trap heat in your attic, which can accelerate shingle deterioration. Alternatively, the heat can dissipate through venting, which can help prevent premature shingle deterioration and other roofing problems.
Your soffit can be made of different materials, such as vinyl, aluminum, OSB siding, or plywood. It can be solid or vented and can be installed over the eaves of your home, or it can be integrated with the gutter system. If you are looking for a more durable option, consider investing in cellular PVC soffit. This material resists rot and provides superior moisture protection.
While it may seem easy to ignore or overlook the soffit, it plays a crucial role in your roof’s functionality and appearance. The soffit protects your home from the elements, keeps critters out, and directs rainwater into the gutters and away from your home. Therefore, it is imperative that you regularly inspect and repair any soffit damage before it becomes more costly and complex to fix.
Trim Tree Branches
Trees are beautiful additions to any yard, but if left uncontrolled, they can damage your home. They can grow too close to your foundation and create issues with your gutters, or they may hang over your roof, causing damage. Careful tree trimming can prevent these issues, but if branches overhang your roof, it’s important to cut them back regularly. It’s also important to make sure that the limbs you cut are healthy, and any diseased or dead ones should be removed.
Before you start trimming, it’s a good idea to consult with an arborist or roofer. They will be able to provide advice about how far away from your house you should trim the branches, and they will also know how to avoid damaging the tree.
Branches that touch or overhang the roof should be trimmed regularly, especially during wind storms. They can rub against the shingles, and over time this will wear away at them. This can lead to leaks, which can be expensive to repair. It’s also a good idea to trim the branches of any trees that drop leaves, twigs, or fruit onto the roof. This will help keep the roof clean and reduce the amount of debris that gets into the gutters, which can clog them.
It’s also a good idea to keep the branches of any nearby trees trimmed as well. This will prevent the limbs from falling on the roof during a windstorm, and it will also prevent them from getting too close to the house and touching or overhanging it. If a neighbor’s tree is too close, it might be worth politely asking them to trim it.
Keeping up with routine roof maintenance can keep your home safe, dry and protected for years to come. The key is to catch problems before they cause serious damage, so be sure to check in with a roofer and an arborist to perform regular inspections. It’s a lot easier to take care of small problems before they become big ones, so it’s well worth the investment in prevention!