Inspect shingles for damage and replace any that have become weakened. This will protect the attic and other parts of the house from moisture that could otherwise cause structural damage.
Keep in mind that repairing or replacing damaged roof materials can add up quickly. Likewise, organic growth such as moss is more difficult to remove and can quickly return. Visit https://www.corpuschristiroofingco.com/ to learn more.
Caulking is a waterproof material used to seal gaps and cracks between materials in the home. It stops nuisances like pests, water and drafts from entering the home and saves energy by stopping cooled or heated air from escaping. It can be applied to a variety of surfaces including wood, plaster, brick and concrete. It is a key part of any roofing maintenance plan.
The first thing to do when preparing to apply caulking is to clean the surface thoroughly. This is to remove any loose particles that could interfere with the adhesion of the caulking. The surface should also be completely dry. Moisture can hinder caulking adhesion and cause premature failure.
Next, you need to choose a type of caulk for the job. There are many different types of caulks on the market with specific qualities and uses. You will need to consider the flexibility and durability requirements of the area, the resistance to moisture, mold and mildew and paintability if you are planning to repaint.
Decorators caulks are typically used to seal the small gaps between molding and wall surfaces. It is also commonly used to seal the gap between skirting boards and architraves or the wall and window surrounds. It is a good idea to use a silicone based caulk as this will be the most resistant to the water and moisture in these areas. It is also the most likely to be paintable.
There are several good brands of silicone caulks available on the market. You can find these at most hardware stores.
When applying caulk, it is important to use a quality caulking tool to ensure an even application and a neat finish. You can purchase these at most hardware stores or online. If you do not want to invest in a caulking gun, then a putty knife or similar type of tool will work just as well.
You can also use caulk for less obvious applications such as preventing flower pots from scratching hardwood floors. Apply a few dabs of the caulk under each flower pot to stop it from scratching your floor.
Trimming Tree Branches
The trees in our yard and neighborhood add so much to the beauty of our homes. But the same trees that give us shade and charm can also pose a danger to our roofs. If left unattended, overhanging branches can scrape against the roofing materials during stormy weather, causing them to deteriorate. Tree limbs can also block the flow of rainwater, which can cause moisture problems and even lead to roof leaks.
Another problem that can come from nearby trees is the collection of debris on the roof and in gutters. Leaves, twigs, fruit, and other organic material can collect on the roof and create an environment that supports mold growth and even ice dams. Trimming trees regularly prevents these issues and helps your roof last longer.
It’s best to work with a professional when it comes to trimming tree limbs. They’ll have the right tools and protective equipment to do the job safely. They’ll know the proper methods for removing branches, including the 3-cut method.
The first cut is near the branch collar (the area of stem tissue that joins the trunk of the tree). Make a cut there, no more than an inch or two from the trunk. The second cut is an inch or so out from the first one, again no more than about a third of the way through. The final cut is about an inch out from the first two, leaving a small stub of a branch. The stub will eventually break off on its own.
This method of trimming a tree helps the tree recover and reduces stress from wind, snow, gravity, and other factors that can affect specific branches. It can be done on a variety of sizes and types of trees.
Keep in mind that it’s best to do the majority of your tree pruning during the dormant season. Otherwise, the wounds will not have time to heal properly and can potentially be damaged by other storms or by animals that are seeking shelter from the elements.
Inspect the Gutters
When gutters are functioning properly, they divert water away from the home’s foundation and exterior walls. This prevents water from wicking up through the basement and foundation and into the home’s interior. In addition, gutters ensure that water doesn’t pool around the house, which can cause foundation problems and wood rot.
Gutters should be inspected regularly to confirm that they are in good condition and that the downspouts are in the correct position. A professional inspector will check the gutters from the ground and on the roof. This will allow him or her to spot inconsistencies, such as sections that are knocked out of alignment and missing parts like hangers. The inspector will also look for rust, leaks and other damage.
Leaks may be caused by a worn-out sealant or the end cap or seam of the gutter. These are often repairable by stripping off the old sealant and reapplying it. Other leaks may be caused by a hole in the gutter or loose joints. These are more likely to require a replacement of the gutter section.
The gutters should be clean and free of debris to ensure that the downspouts are working properly. A clogged gutter can act as an impenetrable dam that prevents water from flowing away from the roof. Regular cleaning helps to reduce the risk of this occurring, although it is always wise to have a professional inspect and clean the gutters at least once every other year.
It is also a good idea to inspect the gutters after heavy rain, as this will help to identify any areas where water infiltration may be occurring. This allows the homeowner to take action before the problem becomes worse and can lead to costly repairs.
While it is possible for homeowners to conduct a visual inspection of their roof and gutters, most people prefer to leave this job to professionals who are trained to find problems that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. A professional can also provide a detailed report of the findings and recommend any necessary work that needs to be done.
Inspect the Flashing
Flashing is the metal trim that seals around penetrations in a roof such as chimneys, skylights and vents. It’s also found in valleys, where two sections of a roof meet at an angle, and along eaves and rake edges.
The most common problem with roof flashing is leaks. You can avoid this issue by inspecting your home’s roof flashing on a regular basis. A good time to do this is twice per year, in the spring and fall or after severe weather events. This way, you’ll be able to spot damage or wear and address it before water leaking into your home.
You can check your flashing for cracks, rust or missing pieces by looking up at your roof from the ground using binoculars or a ladder that’s tall enough to reach. If the roof slope is too steep for you to safely conduct this inspection, call a roofing professional to perform it for you.
Faulty flashing can lead to water intrusion in the attic or ceiling, resulting in mold, rot or ruined drywall and insulation. It may also cause wood damage to the decking and rafters. Luckily, flashing is generally inexpensive to replace and can usually be fixed by caulking or other simple repairs.
Typical flashing is made of aluminum or galvanized steel. Copper is sometimes used as well, but it’s more expensive and can corrode. Because the flashing is exposed to harsh weather, it’s important that it be as durable and rust-resistant as possible.
In addition to checking for cracks, dents and rust on your flashing, you should also look for gaps or separations between the flashing and the roofing. This is an indicator that the sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. You should also pay attention to areas where the flashing is separating from the wall, as this can cause moisture intrusion in the attic or ceiling.
Other signs that your flashing is leaking or in need of repair include damp or mildew-filled attics and visible water stains on walls or ceilings. If you notice these issues, you’ll need to have a professional roofer inspect and repair the flashing as needed.