It can be easy to overlook some vital maintenance tasks like inspecting for leaks or performing regular cleanings when it comes to your roof. Keep in mind that a roof’s lifespan is directly related to how much work you put into it, so be sure you do everything you can to keep it in good shape. This post will cover some of the most common mistakes to avoid if you want to keep your roof in good condition.
Performing Maintenance Only When There Is A Problem
The roof is something of a no-go zone for most homeowners due to the dangers and hassle of getting up there. However, the first and easiest mistake on the list is not maintaining your roof, even if nothing is wrong with it. Regular roof maintenance is vital for ensuring that it performs as it should be. Moreover, by performing a routine roof inspection, you will discover minor issues before they develop into significant ones. This will save you money in the long run and provide you with peace of mind.
Over-Insulating
In order to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, insulation is necessary, but you can overdo it if not careful. Insulation that is too thick can cause moisture to build up, leading to mold growth. This can also reduce your home’s efficiency since heat is trapped inside with nowhere to escape. This Fremantle Roofing Services provider suggests installing a turbine vine (or whirlybird depending on where you are from!) that can enable you to cut down the costs and dangers of insulation but still keep your house cool in the summer months. Insulation is undoubtedly a benefit, but it’s crucial to use an insulation contractor who knows what they’re doing for a home in your climate.
Using Temporary Fixes
If you want your roof to remain in fantastic shape for as long as possible, which you do, you should avoid temporary fixes whenever possible. In some cases, patching something up may be necessary until you or a professional can carry out a proper repair, but it should never remain in its temporary form. If you are repairing a leak or replacing a shingle, for example, you should complete the job as soon as you can or hire those who can do it correctly for you. The longer you leave a temporary fix, the more likely something worse will occur. For example, if you rig up something to keep a broken gutter in place without considering the cause of the issue, you may end up putting your entire home at risk.
Inadequate Moisture Protection
An essential part of any roofing system is moisture protection. The first line of defense against water penetration is the roofing material, such as asphalt shingles or metal, and the second line is the moisture barrier. This layer prevents moisture from leaking into your home through the sheathing in your walls, gaps around pipes and wires, and other penetrations in your building envelope. If you have an inadequate barrier, you could find water leaking into your home, causing all kinds of chaos.
Washing Your Roof With Pressure Washer
A pressure washer is excellent; you can use it to wash your car, clean your driveway and blast dirt off almost any surface. However, you should leave it firmly pointed to the ground when it comes to your roof. No matter what material you use for your roof, overzealous pressure washer use can cause damage. This damage might be evident, like missing shingles, or it could be hidden like ripping the moisture barrier. If your roof is particularly dirty, a hose, broom, and some elbow grease usually work the best.
Installing Things Incorrectly On Your Roof
Solar panels have been a must-have accessory over the past decade, and now that energy prices are increasing, more people are turning to them yet again. In addition to solar panels, there is a wide range of things that you can install on your roof, and all can be beneficial if installed correctly. The downside is that if you bodge the job, you might end up paying a hefty repair bill.
Not Paying Attention To Where You Place Your Feet
As a slight continuation of the last point, if you have heeded this post and plan to get up on your roof for regular inspections, you will want to be careful where you put your feet. One wrong step could cause anything from minor embarrassment to death. Nevertheless, not locating the strongest points before placing food up there will undoubtedly result in a hefty repair bill regardless of what happens to you!
Many things can go wrong with your roof, so you should make every effort to avoid hastening their onset. By taking basic precautions and hiring the pros when required, your roof should stay in great shape for years to come.
