Texas roofing takes a year-round beating. In the summer, temperature and humidity levels can soar. Most springs bring hailstorms and torrential rains. In the winter, overnight temperatures can drop below freezing, allowing frost to form on roofs and putting roof materials through a rapid freeze/thaw event. Regardless of the season, roofs will also be exposed to many bright, sunny days that allow UV rays to damage asphalt shingles and other materials. If you want to reduce the likelihood that your roof will need an expensive repair or even early replacement, your best approach is to be proactive about your routine maintenance.
Tips to Prevent Expensive Roofing Problems
What Do Most Licensed Roofing Companies Consider Routine Maintenance?
Homes in Austin have several different architectural styles that can be designed for a variety of roof coverings. Therefore, the exact procedures you need may differ a great deal from those that your relatives or friends need. For example, if you have a metal roof, you will want your contractor to ensure that visible fasteners are correctly tightened. Despite some differences, however, many preventive maintenance plans include all or most of the following.
1. An annual inspection conducted by a roof contractor Austin homeowners have identified as trustworthy, professional, and competent can often identify a small issue before a leak or another problem develops. A professional inspection should also be performed after any instance of severe weather.
2. Your contractor should inspect all pipe boots, seals, and flashing. Chimneys, vents, skylights, and pipes are especially vulnerable to leaks if they are not sufficiently watertight.
3. Inspect your attic frequently. One inspection should be done on a sunny day; look for light coming through in spots where there should be no light. Another inspection should be conducted immediately after every significant rain or hailstorm. During both types of attic inspections, look for water stains, mildew, mold, and damp spots on attic insulation, rafters, boxes, or other items stored in the attic, the underneath side of the roof decking, and around gable vents.
4. Clogged, sagging, or broken gutters can cause problems for your roof, your foundation, your siding, and your landscaping. If the problem persists, water can seep through pinholes in the mortar if you have brick cladding or behind other types of siding. The water can then rot the wood in the wall void or allow a hidden colony of mold to flourish. Visually inspect your gutters for cracks, missing sections, or holes, and make sure that they are securely fastened. You can use a garden hose to make sure that water can flow freely to the downspouts.
5. Have trees trimmed if they have branches that scrape against your roof or have dead limbs that could break in a storm and fall on your roof. If piles of leaves or twigs are present, have them removed. Debris on your roof can retain moisture and encourage mildew or mold.
6. If you notice any missing or broken shingles, call for a roofing repair right away. Many replacement roofs have to be installed because repairs were delayed or ignored.
Alpha Roofing is a leading commercial and residential roof contractor serving customers in most Central Texas counties. Our services include roofing repair, asphalt shingle replacement roofs, metal roof installations, roofing preventive maintenance programs, chimney and flashing repairs, moss and debris removal, and skylight installation. We are known for our exceptional customer service, exemplary workmanship, and professionalism. You can call our office at 512-777-1086 or fill out the online form to request a free quote.