The thought of water damage strikes fear into the hearts of many a homeowner. When your roof starts leaking, it can compromise other parts of your house. It can also damage your furniture, carpets, appliances and other possessions. The good news is that you can usually prevent water damage that comes from a leaky roof. Most potential problems will turn up in a roof inspection. Let’s look at what you can do to keep your roof in great shape.
Get a Roofer in Greenville SC to Quickly Replace Missing Shingles
Roof shingles protect your roof from the elements but only when they are all in place and in good condition. When your shingles are bent, cracked or missing, leaks are more likely. If you see shingle debris in your yard or unusually colored patches on the roof, you have a problem. If you’re comfortable doing your own repairs, you can repair a simple crack before it gets worse. You can also install a new shingle if one is missing. However, if this is too much for you, hire a local roofer to do the work. They will know exactly how to do the job quickly and effectively. The sooner you get the repairs done, the better it will be.
Address Pools of Water Immediately
If you see pools of water standing on your roof after a downpour, it could spell trouble. Ponding, as it is known, can lead to rot and consequently, leaks. Water is most likely to settle on flat roofs and roofs with a low slope. However, it can happen on any type of roof. If you notice ponding, call a roofing contractor so they can replace your roof and decking. You need to move quickly before water damage sets in.
Clean Your Gutters Often
Gutters carry runoff away from your roof and siding. If they are clogged with debris, they won’t do their job properly. You’ll notice more water and moisture on your roof surfaces, and this increases the likelihood of leaks. To keep your gutters clear, scoop out leaves and other debris with a trowel and then rinse the gutters out thoroughly. Also, be sure to inspect your gutters regularly for leaks or rust which could be problematic later. Clean your gutters twice a year, preferably at the end of fall and spring.
Take a Look at Your Attic Ceiling
You can also discover leaks by looking for damage on the ceiling of your attic. If your insulation is damaged or moldy or your ceiling panels are stained, you should call a roofer. After a professional inspection, you will have a better idea of the extent of the problem.. The inspector will also be able to give you recommendations on how to proceed.
Have Greenville, SC Contractors Inspect Opening and Joints
Leaks tend to develop where different elements of the roof are joined. Technicians protect these joints with a flexible metal called flashing. However, the flashing can rust, get bent or lose its seal and this can make your roof vulnerable to leaks.
Also, since some roof features like chimneys are attached with mortar, the seal can be washed away by rain. If you notice grit or sand in your gutters, this could be why. That’s why it’s important to get the areas around your vents, chimney, skylights, and pipes checked. Remember to get your roof inspected by a professional every five years. If the roof is more than ten years old, you’ll need more frequent inspections.
Clear Ice Dams After Heavy Snowfall
When the interior of your home is warm and snow falls onto the roof, the rising heat melts the snow. This may sound like a good thing. However, when the melted snow reaches the edges of the roof where it is much colder, it freezes again. This ice can clog your gutters and stop water from running off. It can also cause icicles to develop. Scraping off the snow and ice can help to prevent ice dams. However, you also ensure your attic is properly insulated so heat doesn’t escape in the first place.
Contact Greenville Roofing Today to Help Prevent Water Damage
If you’re concerned and want to prevent water damage or a roof leak, you need to call the experts. When you want to hire professional roofers in Greenville, SC, you should turn to Greenville Roofing. We have experienced and highly trained technicians who will spot even the slightest problem on your roof. Reach out to us today to schedule an inspection and let us give you the peace of mind you need.