Autumn brings a welcome respite from the heat that can make many people in Central Texas decide to spend most of the summer indoors. The cooler weather also provides the opportunity to make sure your roofing system is ready to face whatever challenges the winter might bring. The easiest way to accomplish this is to hire a professional to conduct a thorough inspection. However, if you are physically able and know how to do so safely, you can inspect many of the components yourself.
Flashings
Flashings are essential to the integrity of your roofing system. They are found along the intersection of a roof and wall, around your chimney and around any vents that penetrate your roof. If flashings become bent, cracked, rusty or displaced, water can infiltrate around them, resulting in damage to your roof deck, rafters or the interior of your home, including your furnishings. If the roof is in good condition and you find damaged or missing flashing, you can simply replace it. If the flashing is in good shape, you need only clean around it to remove any leaves or debris that might impede the flow of water from your roof to your gutters.
Gutters
Cleaning out your gutters might not be your idea of fun, but it can be an effective way to protect your home. Clogged gutters can force water under your shingles, which can lead to damaged decking or leaks inside your home. After cleaning, examine your gutters from the roof as well as from the ground. Look for sagging gutters, loose brackets securing your gutters or, if you have the metal style, signs of rust on the bottom of the gutters. Include your downspouts in this inspection to make sure they are secure and that water is flowing freely through them.
Trim Boards
The fascia are the trim boards behind your gutters. The varge boards are the boards that are found at the ends of roofs between the peak and the eave. Both serve similar functions, which is to protect the edges and ends of your roof while keeping the exposed portions of your roof frame from moisture. Make sure that these boards are securely fastened and that no nails are protruding from them.
Moss, Mildew and Debris
Your inspection is a good time to remove any trash or debris that might have found its way to your rooftop. You might also want to kill any moss or mildew; bleach is typically effective, but it makes the roof very slippery, so you will want to take extra precautions during this procedure.
For More Help
There are also parts of your roofing system that you may be unable to inspect. For example, it is important to know that your chimney is clean and functional before you light the first fire of the season. It may also be difficult for a non-professional to evaluate the condition of your skylights.
At Alpha Roofing Industries, we have been helping our customers prepare their homes for winter for more than 35 years. We offer a wide range of services to customers throughout the greater Austin and Central Texas area, including roof inspections, moss removal, and chimney repairs. Our crews are dedicated to providing superior results at reasonable prices. Complete our online form to receive a free estimate, or call us at (512) 777-1086.