One of the biggest concerns you may have as a Buffalo homeowner is keeping your roofing system in perfect condition. During a given year, it is likely that your roof will face harsh weather conditions that include snowfall, windstorms, and the most common of them all, constant rains.
No one wants to deal with roof leaks in heavy rains, but if you live in a place that receives adequate rain, you have no choice. This is why to help you maintain your roof, we have shared some important tips that you can follow so that your roof continues to protect you; after all, prevention is better than cure!
👉 Roof Inspection Is Essential
One of the crucial things involved in effectively maintaining your home from roof leaks in heavy rains is to carry out free roof inspections. Most homeowners do not do this as they feel inspecting is not important. However, you should not make this mistake. Checking and maintaining your roof regularly helps to identify issues early so that they do not pose a big problem in the future.
Note that it is better to hire a professional for a roof inspection rather than doing it yourself. While you may not be able to see hidden issues, a roofing professional trained to do this work certainly can. Also, it will give you peace of mind and safety as you will not have to take trouble in actually climbing on the roof and putting yourself at risk.
👉 Clean Your Roofing System
Not only inspection, but you also need to take proper action for your roof as well. While cleaning other areas adjacent to the roofing system, it is important that you clean your roof as well. Keep your roof free from debris such as twigs, branches, etc. If these stay on your roof for too long, they tend to hold water. This standing/pooling water on your roof can be harmful.
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👉 Maintain Your Shingles
Shingle roof is the most common type of roofing material used in Buffalo, NY, and throughout North America. No matter what type of shingle you have on your roof, 3 tab, luxury, or fiberglass, all will need proper maintenance. One of the most common causes for any issues related to every roof is typically improperly installed, damaged, or deteriorated shingles. So be sure to check the shingles, especially to assess whether there are roof leaks in heavy rains.
👉 Check Roof Flashing
Roof flashing is a special type of metal that is used to seal the joints between the roof and walls or to connect other parts of the roof. You might have seen these little pieces installed near the chimney area and the skylight. When you have a problem with a roof leak, it’s usually because water has gotten behind the flashing, which can happen if it’s worn out or not installed properly.
👉 Are Your Gutters Clean?
A well-maintained gutter system is critical to preventing roof leaks. The gutters collect water from your roof and direct it away from the house so that the foundation isn’t damaged. If your gutters are clogged, debris can block them and cause water to back up on your roof or inside your walls. If you notice leaves collecting in your gutters, clean them out once a year as part of routine maintenance (this should be done, especially during the fall months). Not only gutters, but you also need to make sure that your downspouts are working properly as well.
👉 Take A Note Of Your Surroundings
Assessing the area and surroundings that you live in is also important. With surrounding, we mean the things that are around your property. This includes everything from the gutters on your home to the trees and shrubs around your property.
Excessive growth of trees and shrubs can hurt your home. If you have trees around your home, consider having an arborist prune them, so they don’t overhang on your roofs or damage gutters with excessive growths of branches and leaves. Also, inspect the condition of these trees twice yearly for signs of disease or pest infestations.
👉 Ventilation Systems
You might not know that ventilation also plays a part in preventing roof leaks. A ventilation system should remove excess moisture from the air and protect the underside of your roof from getting wet. Provide enough ventilation so that moisture doesn’t accumulate in your attic.
Hire OConnor Contracting For Professional Roof Inspection
We hope these tips have given you some ideas about how to prevent roof leaks in heavy rains and will help you avoid the cost of repairing water damage. The important thing is to stay vigilant by inspecting your roof regularly and keeping an eye out for all those potential problems that can cause leaks.
If this seems much of a task, then be sure to contact OConnor Contracting. We will do the work in the most effective and efficient way possible so that you can focus on yourself and your family. Contact us today at 716-600-7663 and book a roof inspection absolutely free!.
