A Complete Guide to Prevent Roof Leaks Like a Pro

Prevention is better than cure, and the same principle is applicable with your roof. A leaky roof can cause a lot of structural problems and become a health hazard. Early detection will save you a lot of money and time.

Homeowners may feel like doing maintenance for their roof is time-consuming and cost money. However, fixing a leaky roof is even more costly because you have to deal with all the damages that occurred due to the leak. Broken insulations, damaged furniture, and a more serious health hazard, mold growth are some of the results of a flawed roofing system.

A roof repair can cost you around $3,000 to $4,000 for a 100 to 150 square meter in Australia. Roof maintenance costs you way less than that.

A regular roof leak detection cost less than a roof repair bill. And maintenance work doesn’t consume a lot of time compared to repair. Don’tDon’t wait for later. Find a roof plumber near you on the Google search bar, and ask for a quote.

Meanwhile, the key to avoiding a leaky roof is to maintain your roof properly. Here is a guide to help you:

Do regular inspection on the roof

Schedule a regular roof inspection, so you’ll be able to detect any potential leaks before they happen. Certain structures are prone to damage and leaks, such as chimneys and skylights.

Make sure to check your roof flashing because it is an important aspect of your roof. Roof flashing is designed to prevent water accumulation and direct it away from the openings. Look for any bent flashing, loose nails, and openings on the roof.

Simple roof care you can do is putting roofing caulk on areas that are seems compromised. Use a putty knife to remove any adhesives, clean the area, and put the caulk. It is important to note that this is a temporary fix, and you should contact a professional.

Also, inspect your drip edge. Make sure it is in the best condition. Poor drip edge can cause serious water damage such as wood rots and roof leaks. Clear the drip edge from any debris to allow a smooth flow of water.

Check the attic

The attic is often overlooked when it comes to roof maintenance, but it can also contribute to leaks. The first thing you need to check is the ventilation. Any moisture build-up can actually cause various problems.

The vents and louvers should be free from blockage because this can cause moisture or heat build-up. When this happens, the insulation and sheathing can get affected and compromise the integrity of the materials.

Check for any presence of mold, algae, rust, and black stain because this is indicative of moisture.

Clean the Gutters

Another essential part of your roofing system is the gutter. It is designed to prevent water damage and leaks around the house, thus keeping a regular inspection and maintenance is necessary.

Because gutter and downspouts are responsible for directing proper drainage of water on the roof, any blockage caused by fallen debris can cause serious damage. Clear the gutters from leaves, branches, and twigs. Any form of accumulated dirt can potentially cause clogging, making it difficult for water to flow down the drain. When there is stagnant water on the roof, the gutters, and downspout, it will easily cause rotting and eventually leakages around the house.

You should do a weekly clean up when your home is surrounded by trees and branches. Aside from cleaning the roof, trimming trees and branches around the house can help decrease the need to clear the area constantly. Annual professional care is encouraged to keep the roof in the best shape.

What to do when there are leaks?

When you notice leaks at home, call your roofing professional immediately to set a schedule. There are companies that provide a 24/7 emergency service to provide immediate relief of the situation, but you will still need a thorough inspection of the roof. While waiting for them to fix your broken roof, there are immediate actions you can take to prevent further damage.

Remove your furniture and appliances. Keep it away from any water source, especially electronics. You can cover your furniture using plastic drapes if it is hard to move the furniture.

If you have an insurance policy for your home, call your agent and inform them about the situation. They will need to carry out some documentation by taking pictures and inspect the area personally. Do this before any cleanup by the roofing personnel.

Conclusion

Roof repair is preventable. Neglecting your roof is a sure way to incur unnecessary expenses in the near future. If you want to save money, consider doing regular maintenance of your roofing system and hiring a professional annually for more comprehensive maintenance care. It will prolong the life of the roof and protect your household from harm.