When it comes to summer, you probably think about things like vacations, beaches, barbeques, and long, lazy days in the sunshine. But summer, especially in the northeast, also brings heavy rainstorms with strong winds. And if your roof isn’t prepared, those storms can cause damaging, expensive leaks.
The best offense against a leaky roof is a good defense. With a little maintenance and attention, you can help prevent leaks the next time it rains.
Flynn Roofing Company offers several proactive steps to help prevent roof leaks before the summer rains arrive. From inspecting shingles and flashing to clearing gutters and scheduling a professional roof evaluation, these preventative measures are designed to protect your home from costly water damage and ensure your roof is ready for the season ahead.
Things You Can Do
Before hiring a professional roofer, there are three DIY steps you can take to check your roof’s condition.
1. Inspect Your Roof:
We strongly recommend having a professional inspect your roof from the top. Climbing up and walking along your roof can be dangerous. However, you can perform some preliminary inspections from the ground.
Look for:
- Shingles – you might notice some shingles are missing, cracked, or otherwise out of shape.
- Mold, algae, moss, or water stains – if you see any of these on or adjacent to your roof, it could indicate an underlying problem.
- Sagging – any dips or sags should be noted so a professional can address them.
- Skylights – check for leaky areas around the edges, and consider sealing them up before summer.
2. Clean the Gutters:
The gutters around your house are there to help prevent roof leaks. Gutters prevent water buildup that creates stagnant pools on your roof. The stagnant water is bad for your shingles and can wind up leaking into your home.
Practice good gutter maintenance by:
- Clearing any and all blockages that could prevent proper water flow.
- Clearing blockages from downspouts, which move water away from your house.
- Look for any loose parts, holes, sagging, cracks, or other sections that might prevent proper water flow.
- Consider renting a power washer to thoroughly clean stubborn debris or blockages.
- Also consider installing gutter guards, which are mesh screens that prevent debris from getting into your gutters.
3. Tree Maintenance:
Any branches that hang over your roof could break and fall during a storm, especially in strong winds. Now’s the time to trim the trees around your house so that all branches are a safe distance from your roof.
Call a Professional
The steps we’ve mentioned will go a long way toward making your roof safe for major summer storms.
Once you’ve taken care of the gutters and trees and have noted any potential weak spots from the ground, it’s time to call a licensed and experienced roofer for a professional inspection. This inspection will include the following.
Flashing Inspection:
Flashing is the waterproof barrier generally found around roof features such as chimneys and vents. Your roofer will let you know of any loose or damaged flashing that might let in water during a storm.
Shingles Inspection:
As a professional, your roofer can safely go up to your roof and inspect it closely for signs of damaged shingles. Should they find any damage, a trustworthy roofer will discuss the cost of repairs with you before starting any work.
Waterproofing:
It may be worth considering having your entire roof professionally waterproofed. Think of it as an investment in your home’s value and insurance against future costly damage.
- Once your roof has been thoroughly inspected and any damage has been repaired, waterproofing your roof typically involves:
- Installing specialized barriers around your roof’s flashing.
- Underlayment, which helps your roof shingles stay flat and strong during strong winds.
- Sealing your entire roof with a waterproof coating, such as:
- Single-ply membranes
- Rubberized asphalt
- Rubber membranes
After the inspection, your roofing professional will suggest ways to leak-proof your roof. Older roofs, in particular, may require more work than new construction.
Finally, if you’ve experienced leaks in the past or know that your roof was damaged in a previous storm, it’s worth getting a professional opinion. You may need simple repairs or an entirely new roof. A trustworthy, expert roofer can help you determine the best way to proceed.
FAQ
Q: When should I call a professional roof inspector?
A: The best time to call a pro is before the start of summer storm season. After that, call a pro as soon as you notice any leaks, wet spots, mold, or mildew inside your home (including your attic).
Q: How does rain cause roof leaks?
A: Several factors come into play when it comes to roof leaks:
- Leaks are often caused by damaged shingles, clogged gutters, or insufficient flashing.
- Though you may not think of it, the extreme temperature fluctuations of summer can cause your shingles to warp or crack, letting water into your home.
- Roofs more than 20 years old can lose their water resistance and absorb water during a storm.
- Improper installation or repairs from the past can come back to haunt you when it rains and water gets inside your home.
Q: How much does a professional roof inspection cost?
A: That will depend on a variety of factors, including:
- The size of your roof
- The materials of your roof
- The age of your roof
Q: Can’t I just go up to the roof myself?
A: Strictly speaking, yes, you can climb up onto your roof and inspect it yourself. However, we strongly recommend against it. Only a professional roofer can inspect your roof safely and thoroughly. They know what to look for and how to check for damage beyond broken shingles. They can also make expert recommendations for how to proceed with repairs or waterproofing.
Flynn Roofing is Ready to Leak-Proof Your Roof
Give yourself peace of mind this summer by knowing that your roof is ready to handle any storm. Call Flynn Roofing today for an inspection so you can enjoy your summer!
If you live in Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, or Suffolk Counties, we offer no-obligation, free estimates on roof repairs and replacements. Contact us today for all your roofing needs!