Simple Maintenance Tips for Roofs

Posted on: 27 August 2020

If you're updating your home and getting it ready for winter, you may want to give your roof a closer look.  If your roof is old, it might not make it through another winter. This is especially true if you can already see visible signs of damage. If your roof has already been repaired several times, and the shingles are starting to curl and detach, it's time to call a reroofing contractor. Here are some steps that will help you to plan for your new roof. 

1. Start With a Bare Surface

You may have seen people install a new roof over the existing shingles. If your roof has never been replaced before, re-roofing over the existing roof is an option. But, if your roof already has at least two layers of shingles, it's not a good idea to try to add a third layer. First, the weight may be too much for your home to handle. Second, the layers may be too thick for a secure fit. Avoid those problems altogether. Have the old shingles removed before you have the new ones installed. That way, you can give your home a clean slate. 

2. Consider the Weather Conditions

If you deal with severe weather conditions throughout the year, now's the time to weatherize your roof. If freezing temperatures are a concern, have an ice and water shield installed with your new roof. Heating cables are also a good system to add to your new roof. They can help to prevent winter roof damage. For summer protection, have attic fans installed with your new roof. Attic fans help to prevent heat-related roof damage. It's also a good idea to have a weatherproof sealant applied to your new roof once it's installed. 

3. Choose the Right Flashing

Your new roof is a big investment. Because of that, you don't want to cut corners. One corner that's often cut involves the flashing. If you're thinking about installing rubber flashing on your new roof, rethink that decision. Rubber flashing will wear out long before your new roof does. Make sure that doesn't happen. Choose UV resistant pipe flashing instead. 

4. Make Sure the Job is Complete

If you're going to have a new roof installed on your home, make sure the job is complete. First, check the warranty. For maximum protection, you'll want to ensure that your new roof comes with two warranties. One warranty should cover any manufacturer's defects. The second warranty should come from your roofing contractor. That warranty will cover issues with the installation.