A roof leak can quickly rack up expenses, and—at its worst—completely destroy a home. While there are some easy things you can do to help protect your roof, such as keeping your gutter systems clean (use a ladder to reach the gutters to avoid walking on your roof as much as possible) and cutting back trees and branches that are close to the roof, there are some bigger things that probably require a professional roofing company to help you address.
In this blog, we take a quick look at five tips that will help prevent roof leaks from occurring, which will protect your home and save you money—and hopefully ensure that your roof lasts for its expected lifespan.
Tip 1: Pay for a roof inspection before buying a home
Most real estate processes require some sort of roof inspection, but be sure to hire a professional who knows what to look for and takes their time checking every aspect of the roof. A roof certification inspection can provide peace of mind, giving you proof that the roof meets or exceeds local and state building codes and that your home and its inhabitants are protected from the elements.
Tip 2: Avoid poor installation when building a home
A new roof is a major purchase. That’s just one reason it makes sense to buy a roof that comes with quality coverage, excellent workmanship, and reliable customer support. While almost all brands will offer the same basic coverage, some businesses go above and beyond when it comes to providing warranties and service. Choosing a company with outstanding after-purchase support can make a huge difference if an unexpected problem occurs.
Installation matters. You can have the best product in the world, but if it’s not installed properly, you can have problems down the road. Ask about installing hip and ridge shingles to cover the seams at the top of the roof where rainwater could seep in. They are a thicker material that is highly wind-resistant, so if a professional correctly installs these cap shingles, it will add extra protection to your roofing system. Another additional benefit of cap shingles is that they give your roof a polished, complete look, which can boost your home’s value.
Tip 3: Avoid low quality materials when replacing a roof
Just like great materials won’t matter if the install is done poorly, a great install won’t matter much if you choose low quality materials.
There are many different types of materials, such as asphalt shingles, tile, and metal. But among each type of material, there are also levels or grades of quality.
We understand wanting to keep costs low and stick to a budget, but there are ways to get a quality roofing system that also looks great and not break the bank. This is one area where you don’t want to skimp—not for new roofing, a replacement, or repairs.
Tip 4: Invest in a regular roof maintenance program
Professionals are helpful because they know where to look and what to look for when testing for leaks. Common locations of leaks include dormers, roof vents, soffits, and step flashing.
Look for maintenance packages that offer clients the flexibility of selecting two to four site visits per year. Make sure the company employs licensed and insured professionals. During each visit, a skilled team member should conduct a meticulous inspection of your roof and supply photographic documentation of its current condition.
Depending on the maintenance package, the roofer should also clear debris from the roofing system, collect and dispose of organic material from gutters, and perform minor roof repairs as required. Learn more in our blog “The Importance of Roof Maintenance: What to Expect and Why Inspections Matter.”
Tip 5: Hire a licensed roofing professional to make repairs
Everyone wants to save money if and when it’s possible. But there are some tasks that we shouldn’t leave to DIY. To prevent injuries and to ensure quality workmanship that actually solves the problem, it’s wise to hire a pro to fix a leaking roof. Sometimes, doing the work ourselves or hiring a local handyman instead of a roofing company can create even more problems that cost us more money in the long run.
Sometimes It’s the Attic, Not the Roof, That’s Leaking
A common misconception is that all leaks are caused by an issue with the roof. However, the attic can offer clues as to the root cause of leaks in your home. When checking the attic, be sure to look for any evidence of the following:
- Mold
- Lack of ventilation
- Clogged intake vents
- Soaked insulation
- Algae stains on plywood
- Black rings or rust around nails
How to Address an Active Leak and Minimize Damage
Following our five tips will greatly reduce the chances of roof leaks, but no matter what anyone does, there are still exceptions.
Extreme weather and gradual wear-and-tear over time can damage the roof and cause leaks that result in the need for repair.
Regular maintenance programs should catch most of the wear and tear issues during inspections, and our suggestion about keeping trees trimmed can help with some of the flying debris and limb damage during storms or high winds.
Unfortunately, you still need to know how to address an active leak and minimize the damage to your home and belongings until a roofer can come out and fix the problem.
A Local Roofing Company You Can Trust
If you have concerns about the health and safety of your roof, rely on Sentinel Roofing to inspect it. We will detail each potential repair, prioritizing needs based on urgency, and supply you with an accurate price and time estimate for each fix.
At Sentinel, we understand the importance of quality materials and superior workmanship. We strive to exceed our customers’ expectations in every project we handle.
We are committed to providing reliable, durable, and affordable roofing solutions to ensure long-lasting and high-performing roofs that withstand the elements.
For answers to questions, more information, or to request a free estimate, contact us today.