Roof leaks can cause widespread water damage in your home and can even lead to mold and mildew formation. As a result, you and everyone living under your roof is at risk of inflammation, asthma and other health issues. Furthermore, a leaky roof can also cause an increase in your energy bills. Excess moisture from the roof can deplete your insulation, requiring your HVAC system to work double-time to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
As you can see, roof leaks should never be ignored. They can bring many problems to a household, but the good news is you can prevent leaks and their subsequent issues from happening by being proactive.
Here are a few ways you can help prevent roof leaks from forming:
- Trim tree branches touching or hovering over your roofing and gutter systems. Fallen leaves and twigs can fall on the roof, causing gutter clogs that lead to overflows and give rise to leaks.
- Clear out your gutters regularly. Any dirt, tree branch or other type of debris should be removed to prevent water overflow.
- Got loose or sagging gutters? Have them repaired or replaced immediately. The main role of your gutters is to prevent water from accumulating on your roof. A clogged gutter can encourage excess moisture to seep through your roof and foundation.
- Reset loose bricks.
- Have your chimney and skylights caulked for enhanced protection against the weather.
- If your house has an attic, be sure it’s properly ventilated and insulated. Doing so helps regulate interior temperature while also preventing water entry.
- Replace missing shingles right away. Roof patches that have multiple colors indicate your roof has missing shingles. You should also consider replacing any cracked or broken shingles for more comprehensive protection.
Unlike the natural aging of your roof, leaks are actually preventable. With regular care and maintenance from a professional roofing contractor, your roofing system will help keep your family safe and dry for many years to come.
What can you expect from a professional roof maintenance program? Find out in Part 3 of this blog series!
