Maintenance Tips to Prevent Roof Leaks

One of the most common and expensive issues homeowners call a contractor for is to fix a leaky roof. However, even for a pro, the source of a leak in your roof can be elusive because it rarely matches where the water is entering the home. Your contractor then becomes an investigator trying to identify the source of a leaky situation and determine the path in which the water is traveling. The good news here is that all of this frustration can be avoided by following a proper maintenance program that should be performed at least twice a year to help avoid future problems.

Before an inspection, ensure you take a look around from the ground level and make your contractor aware of any recent extreme weather, leaves, falling debris, trees, animals around the home, satellite or cable work, or additional accident causers that may have damaged the roof.

Once on the roof, keep these 5 simple tips in mind so you may locate future leaks and problem areas before they cause further costly damage.

1. On Edge. Drip edges are not only aesthetically pleasing, but are highly important in ensuring water is kept away from the fascia and directed away from the roof. A bonus is that they also help to keep out insects, snakes, and critters. Always check your drip edge when looking for leaks.

2. Your Roof Isn't Bullet Proof. Penetrations are the most common source for leaks and will block the natural water flow off your roof. Check to make sure:

• Your chimney doesn't need to be re-sealed and has the proper flashing/counter flashing
• If you have a skylight that it is properly flashed and is not leaking itself
• The neoprene/rubber around your plumbing vents has not cracked with age and is not in need of flashing
• Your satellite or cable cords are flashed properly

3. What's on the Inside Really Does Matter. More often than not, homeowners will blame the roof for being the cause of a leaky roof, but the problem can also come from improper air conditioning, ventilation, plumbing, condensation, vent fans, or animal bug infestation in the attic. Keep your eyes peeled for:

• Mold
• Wet insulation when there hasn't been rainfall
• Algae stains on interior plywood
• Blockage in the intake vents from paint, dust, spider webs, or insulation
• Lack of ventilation which causes the attic or overheat/accumulate moisture
• Black rings/rust around nails - the first sign of condensed moisture in your attic space

4. Big Foot. Areas where step flashing should be installed are a common source for roof leaks and a huge part of maintenance. Inspect these areas for damage:

• Roof-to-wall transitions
• Wherever low quality sealant/mastic has been used
• Dormers

5. The Gutter Counts When it Comes to Your Roof. Most homeowners completely underestimate the value of their gutters. They must be installed and sloped correctly to drain, free of debris, and tightly fastened. Contractors should always stress to homeowners the importance of gutter maintenance and that it should be left to a professional.

This is our basic list of maintenance suggestions, however, Trudel and Sons Roofing offers a full comprehensive roof inspection when quoting or beginning a contract. A thorough inspection, performed regularly by a professional roofing contractor, can monitor the roof's condition and help prevent small problems from becoming major roof leaks.

10 Signs You Need a New Roof

If you're like most homeowners, getting a good look at your roof happens from your vehicle as you move in and out of the driveway shuttling kids or running errands. However, inspecting your roof on a regular basis and mending areas that need repair can prevent unexpected costs later on. Not to mention, keeping your roof in good condition will also benefit you if you decide to put your home on the market.

"What should I be looking for, then?", you ask. Well, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends inspecting your roof at least twice a year - spring and fall. The best place to start is inside your home, so, grab a flashlight and venture up to the attic.

While at the highest point of the inside of your home, here's what you want to look for:

1) Signs of water damage/leaking.

2) Places where the roof is sagging.

3) Exterior light shining through the roof.

4) Dark spots/trails.

Once you make your way outside and to the tip top of your home, make sure to pay extra attention to things such as missing shingles, damaged flashing, rotting or algae growth, curling, blistering, or buckling. Areas where some shingles are darker than others are a huge concern for bigger problems as that's where moisture has already begun to collect. Here's some tips for inspecting/handling these issues outside of your home:

5) Scan the roof for loose material/wear around the chimney, vents, pipes and other exposed penetrations.

6) Check all kitchen, bath and dryer vents and ensure they run completely outside of your home - not just into the attic space.

7) Check for signs of moisture, mold, or rot. Water can travel down to its lowest spot before it starts dripping inside the home and mold, fungi and bacteria can grow within 24-48 hours of a water related issue.

8) Visually inspect your roof for cracked, bald, torn or missing shingles.

9) Be aware of an excessive amount of shingle granules in your gutters - a sign of advanced wear.

10) Examine your drainage and make sure all gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Also ensure drainage is open and allows water to flow out freely.