The roof is something most people tend to overlook. It’s probably one of the places in your home that don’t get much attention. That is until it leaks, and things inside your house start getting messy.
Roofing problems can cause severe damages to your property if left untreated. Even the smallest hole where water can seep into can result in the destruction of adjacent areas over time. Water intrusion remains to be the top culprit of roofing problems as it can target almost every part of the roof system. It is among many other issues that can plague your roof if you don’t take care of it properly.
To be more efficient with your roof maintenance, we have prepared a list of areas that you should closely monitor for repairs and how to deal with them.
Flashing Points
Roof flashing is a thin material, usually made of aluminum or galvanized steel, that is installed to direct water away from vulnerable areas of the roof. They are mostly found where the roof meets a vertical surface such as walls. Flashings only cover a small area on your roof, but it is often where technicians can trace problems. They are generally a weak spot in the roofing system, especially when not correctly installed.
There are many things to consider when installing roof flashings. Flashings often connect moving parts, so it is essential that they can bear thermal and load-induced movement. Material choice is also crucial. Most roofing contractors cut and form their flashings. But nowadays, pre-fabricated products are already available, which can be easily applied with caulking or roof cement to lessen human error.
To avoid problems in the flashings, technicians can install 45-degree gradual transitions in the roof rather than the abrupt 90-degrees. They can install water diverters to assist the drainage and avoid ponding. Adding a PVC line that can carry water from HVAC systems directly to the drains is a cheap but effective solution to ponding.
Gutters
Gutters are channels attached at the edges of the roof designed to draw water away from a building’s foundation. It is essential to keep your gutters functioning correctly as problems can cause structural damage. Gutters should be kept clear from debris to prevent clogging and water build-up that can result in mold and mildew build-up under your roof.
Cracks from the gutters must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent them from growing any larger and trap a lot of debris. Small cracks can be fixed with a sealant, but bigger ones need to be patched. Make sure the water also flows freely to the downspout. According to The Spruce, a minimum of a quarter-inch every 10 feet is a must.
Fascia
The fascia is a long, straight board that runs along the lower edges of the roof. It is usually made of wood or a metal sheet. It is more than an aesthetic addition to your roof. The fascia’s primary role is to keep water away from the inside of your house by entering through the gap from the roof edge and your walls. The fascia protects the interior of your house from weather damage. It also supports the tiles near the edge of the roof and carries the gutters. This is no small feat since the water flowing through the gutters can easily reach several gallons per second during heavy rainfall.
Your fascia keeps your roof looking nice while also serving as protection. However, it is susceptible to rotting and rust, so you have to inspect it regularly or have a professional do it for you.
Foot Traffic
You may not expect it, but roof problems can start from maintenance too. Repair personnel that uses inadequate techniques and tools to work on your roof can sometimes do more harm than good. Refrain from walking on your roof when not entirely needed. Roof access must only be given to professionals and trained staff who know what they are doing. While you can install pavers to protect your roof from foot traffic, they can hide some other issues of deterioration, vegetative growth, debris build-up, and even nest small animals and insects.
To ensure that only highly trained professionals will work on your roof with care and compassion, contact us at Yorkshire Roofing. We will take care of your every concern regarding your roof. Your roof protects your entire home, and it needs special treatment that we can provide.
(Source: Facilities.net)