The wear and tear that roofs experience over decades of use on older homes can make them more vulnerable to problems. As the sun beats down on the roof each day, its UV rays can make the shingles brittle, so much so that they detract from the home’s curb appeal and increase the risk of interior leaks. If the roof has had several repairs throughout the years, the patched areas may become weak. But this doesn’t mean you have to settle for a house that’s always struggling with roof problems. Use the following tips to keep the roof in good shape, so it performs better and lasts longer.
Use Binoculars to Get a Good Look at the Shingles
Get out your handy binoculars for an up-close look at the roof from the ground. If you see any loose, missing, curled or cracked shingles, they need to be repaired or replaced by a skilled roofer as soon as possible. Pay extra close attention to shingles around chimneys and roof vents since these tend to be common trouble spots for leaks. You may also want to take a look out of any second-story windows for a closer view of the roofing areas that are difficult to see from the ground.
Inspect the Attic for Roof Leaks
The attic is often the first part of an older home to show signs of trouble when something is wrong with the roof. If you notice a musty smell, mold growth or water puddles on the attic’s floorboards, these are strong indicators of a roof leak. There may be a missing shingle that’s allowing rainwater to seep through, or it could be something more complex like deteriorated flashing around a chimney, vent or skylight. Plan to inspect the attic once a month and after every heavy rainfall. This way, you can catch leaks in the early stages before they result in costly water damage and mold growth.
Clean the Gutters Regularly
The aging structure of an older house makes it less forgiving when it comes to water pooling around the foundation. This can easily happen if you don’t take time to clean the gutters and downspouts regularly. Don’t let them clog with leaves, twigs and bird nests because it restricts the flow of water. The added weight of the trapped water can even pull the gutter brackets off your home’s fascia boards, leading to costly repairs. If you clean the drainage system every two to three months, it will make a big difference in protecting your roof and foundation from water damage.
Scheduling an annual roof inspection is one of the best moves you can make as a homeowner. A roofing pro can easily spot and fix hidden damage and aging roofing components using proven repair methods that maintain your home’s vintage architectural style. When you combine regular inspections with the tips mentioned above, you give your older roof the care it needs to remain in great condition for years to come. When you need roof inspection services in Charleston, SC, contact Restoration Roofing.
