Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Tips For Maintaining Residential Roofing In Wichita, KS

By Jana Serrano


The roof plays a significant role in maintaining the structural integrity of any home. As the first line of defense against the elements, the roof provides protection for the house's occupants and their personal belongings from high winds, brutal sunshine, punishing winds, and soaking rain. Homeowners who properly maintain residential roofing in Wichita, KS can save money in unnecessary repairs and ensure the roof does its job for decades to come.

It is important to schedule a visual inspection of the roof every six months. Homeowners should also do an inspection after a major storm. Some people feel comfortable climbing onto the roof from a ladder but those who do not can always call a professional roofer to perform the inspection. During the inspection, whoever does the job should look for any signs of damage and note the repairs needed.

If the home has asphalt shingles, it is important to inspect the protective granular layer on top. If it has worn away, it leaves the shingles vulnerable to extreme temperature changes and they become brittle and break. Other signs of damage include surface depressions, loose metal flashing, and warped, missing, or cracked shingles that need to be replaced.

Sometimes mold and moss will take hold between shingles and eventually cause them to become loose. Homeowners can spray these organisms with a solution that kills hem and then use a broom to clean away the debris. Never use a power washer because the force can loosen shingles or wash away the protective granules.

To save the home's foundation from water damage, check the gutters for any clogs. When gutters are blocked, water pours out and down the side of the building. Remove all leaves, twigs, and dirt before flushing gently with water from an ordinary garden hose. Doing this after any major storm will prevent damage in the future and ensure gutters are ready for the next big downpour.

Regular inspection and maintenance of soffits and fascia is required. These components are made of wood and prone to rot with continuous exposure to moisture. Paint adds a layer of protection that can keep the materials in good condition. Any soft areas could contain rot, which will lead to water seeping through the material and causing damage to the walls.

Loose flashing material is one of the leading causes of roof leaks. These aluminum or galvanized steel sheets are attached around ventilation pipes, chimneys, skylights, and in low spots on the roof to prevent water from getting inside. Problems with flashing include improper installation, wind damage, or deformation caused by ice forming under the edge. A qualified roofing professional can replace flashing to create a waterproof seal. In addition to protecting the interior from water damage, this will help improve the energy efficiency of the home by preventing heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer.

The biggest financial investment most people will make during their lives is when they purchase a new or used home. Protecting that investment is crucial for future financial stability. With regular roof inspections, homeowners can rest assured that their home is safe from the elements. An experienced local roofing contractor has the experience and tools necessary to help homeowners extend the life of the roof and preserve the home's value.




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1 comment:

  1. Your blog is really well written and informative to know more about roofing. Thanks for providing your information online, it really helped me a lot. residential roofing services

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