Spotting Roof Trouble Early

Protect Your Roof From This Summer's Storms

26 July 2015 by William Gerard

Dramatic summer storms can wreak havoc on seemingly strong rooftops. From water leaks to falling branches, it only takes one storm to cause damage resulting in hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs. These tips will help you keep your roof in good repair this summer. 

Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can lead to drainage problems, causing rainwater to back up into your eaves and onto your roof. Over time, this extra moisture can seep under the shingles and become trapped, leading to water damage, wood rot and mold. 

If you haven't yet this season, clean and repair your gutters. While you do this, test your downspout for clogs by holding a hose over the upper opening of the downspout and turning on the water. If the water won't drain from the downspout, the downspout has a clog. Use a plumber's auger to remove the clog, then flush downspout. Watch for signs of gutter clogs during thunderstorms. Steady streams of water overflowing the sides of your gutters can be an indication that the gutters have formed a clog that needs to be cleared.

Inspect and Repair the Flashing

The flashing is one of the most vulnerable parts of your rooftop. Check your roof's flashing for cracks and eroded caulking. If the caulking is deteriorated, remove it with a scraper, then replace it with fresh caulk. If the flashing itself is cracked or warped, have it replaced by a professional roofer. 

Remove Overhanging Branches

Large, overhanging branches can be a liability during summer storms featuring strong winds. Have an arborist take a look at any trees hanging over your roof or near your roof. Have a qualified tree service remove any branches that are a threat to your property. 

Check After Storms for Evidence of Damage

When storms are over, walk around your house once or twice to check for signs of damage. Look for loose shingles in the yard and around the perimeter of your home. Also, look for smaller branches and other debris on the roof. If you see evidence of these issues, contact a professional roofer to have your roof inspected more carefully. 

Even if you see no evidence that your roof is in distress, it's a good idea to have your roof checked out by a professional at least once a year. This will help you keep up with maintenance and will help ensure that small problems get caught in the early stages. Following these tips, you should be able to protect your roof from storm damage this summer. To find out more, speak with a business like Advantage Roofing.

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