The roof is arguably one of the most important structures of your home, as it’s responsible for protecting your family and belongings from the elements. In South Florida, a strong roof is essential during hurricane season, when powerful winds and rain wreak havoc across the state each year. That’s why it’s critical to maintain your roofing with regular roof inspections and maintenance as it’s needed.
Palm Beach County roofers ABC Roofing Corp offer some helpful tips for homeowners to keep their roofs healthy and strong in years to come.
How Palm Beach Roofers Recommend Caring For Your Roof
When properly taken care of, a well-made roof can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years. Of course, this depends on the materials it’s made from, in addition to following these tips:
Keep Your Roof Debris-Free
Debris in the form of leaves, fallen branches, and other natural materials can end up on your roof during storms. Allowing it to sit on top of your roof can invite moss and mold to grow, as well as trap moisture, which can later seep through the ceiling and infiltrate the walls.
It is possible to clear debris on your own, but it can be dangerous. Roofers are trained professionals who can safely climb ladders and navigate across the roof with reduced risk of slipping or falling. A local Palm Beach roofer like ABC Roofing Corp can provide seasonal maintenance, especially in preparation for, or just after, hurricane season.
Have Your Shingles Inspected
Once debris has been cleared, the next step is to take inventory of the tile and shingles. If they are in good condition, they should sit in uniform, flat against the rooftop. If any are missing, broken, loose, lifted, peeled, curled, or cracked, they may need to be replaced.
More than decorative, shingles help protect the underlying layers of your roof from damage. Any roof with curling or peeling shingles or broken or missing tiles may have ventilation problems: a professional Palm Beach roofer can determine whether this is the case.
Keep Gutters And Downspouts Clean
Gutters are essential in a region where it frequently rains. Gutters and downspouts direct rainwater away from your roof, preventing leaks, water damage, and even floods. But if these get stuffed with leaves or other natural debris, they won’t perform like they’re supposed to. These can be cleaned using a soft-bristle brush to wipe away dirt or grime or can be washed using the garden hose.
You’ll also want a roofer to check for missing caulk, cracks, holes, or signs of rot of the fascia behind the gutters. Affected sections of the gutter and/or facia will need to be replaced, and should be done sooner rather than later to prevent mold growth or leaks into the home.
Observe Skylights, Ceilings, Attics, And Vent Openings
The roof is the apparatus to which skylights, attics, and vents are connected. These are the avenues through which mold or water can leak if the roofing is somehow is damaged. If you notice dark stains on your ceilings, that could be a sign that the integrity of your roof is compromised.
Have Caulk And Flashing Checked Out
Roof flashing is the material that helps repel water from the roof at critical areas of the roof, preventing leaks into the home. It’s used around fixtures where water is likely to infiltrate, such as vents, walls, chimneys, and skylights. Flashing is installed on a roof using roof cement or, at times, caulk, durable materials that are made to last a long time.
However, as with most materials, it can still deteriorate with time. Therefore, it is recommended that roof flashing be replaced every five years or so, but sooner if you notice deterioration or water damage.
Keep Your Trees Trimmed
Trees help provide free shade and are environmentally beneficial. However, trees that are too close to the home can result in clogged gutters with leaves or branches. During hurricane season, branches that fall on your home can result in roof damage. To keep your roofing protected, overhanging branches should be regularly trimmed. This will also prevent small critters like rodents from accessing the roof, and possibly into your attic and home through any cracks or holes.
Furthermore, trimmed tree branches expose your roof to more sunshine, which will help dry up standing water after rain and prevent moss or mold growth.
Protect Your Roof With A Palm Beach Roofing Company
The roofing is one of the most important – and expensive – parts of your home. Regular roof maintenance and inspections will fix minor damages by preventing more costly repairs down the road. A professional roofing company will catch damages that may not be obvious to the untrained eye, offering quality and timely service.
A leading roofing company in South Florida, our contractors specialize in residential and commercial roofing repairs, replacements, tile and shingle replacement, cleanings, and more. A family-owned company, we have proudly served Florida residents for over 30 years.
To schedule your next roof inspection or learn more about protecting your roof during hurricane season and beyond, call ABC Roofing Corp for a free quote today at (954) 344-4622.
