dimanche 12 juillet 2015

How Homeowners Can Maintain Residential Roofing In Wichita, KS

By Jana Serrano


The roof plays a significant role in maintaining the structural integrity of any home. As the first line of defense against the elements, the roof provides protection for the house's occupants and their personal belongings from high winds, brutal sunshine, punishing winds, and soaking rain. Homeowners who properly maintain residential roofing in Wichita, KS can save money in unnecessary repairs and ensure the roof does its job for decades to come.

Every homeowner should plan a visual roof inspection at least twice every year. This should also be done immediately following any severe weather to check for recent damage. Individuals who are not afraid of walking on the roof can perform this inspection themselves as long as they take the proper safety precautions. Anyone who feels uncomfortable with heights can hire a local roofing professional to perform this type of inspection.

Signs of damage to look for during an inspection, include warped shingles, visible depressions in the surface, loose flashing around chimneys and skylights, and cracked or missing shingles. Shingles made of asphalt have a protective layer of granules. If that layer wears away, the shingles become brittle and can allow water to seep into the structure.

Homeowners should remove any moss or mold before it has a chance to work its way into the shingle cracks and damage the materials. Spray the area with a special removal formula and sweep up the mess with an ordinary broom. Attempting to use a power washer to clean the roof can damage shingles, flashing, and other materials.

Clogged gutters are a problem because rainwater cascading out can damage the building's foundation. The debris also adds to the weight, which can damage fascia boards. Homeowners can use a ladder to reach the gutters so they can remove any twigs, leaves, and other debris. The next step is to flush the gutters with water from a garden hose.

Regular inspection and maintenance of soffits and fascia is required. These components are made of wood and prone to rot with continuous exposure to moisture. Paint adds a layer of protection that can keep the materials in good condition. Any soft areas could contain rot, which will lead to water seeping through the material and causing damage to the walls.

Loose flashing material is one of the leading causes of roof leaks. These aluminum or galvanized steel sheets are attached around ventilation pipes, chimneys, skylights, and in low spots on the roof to prevent water from getting inside. Problems with flashing include improper installation, wind damage, or deformation caused by ice forming under the edge. A qualified roofing professional can replace flashing to create a waterproof seal. In addition to protecting the interior from water damage, this will help improve the energy efficiency of the home by preventing heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer.

Any home represents a major financial investment and it is important for consumers to protect their investment. Roof maintenance plays an important role in making sure the building is structurally sound and comfortable to live in. An experienced residential roofing contractor can help consumers maintain the integrity of their roof so they can enjoy their home for years to come.




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