Preventive maintenance and proper care is important for all of your home systems, from your roof to your foundation. Without it, you’re likely to contend with comfort problems, higher energy bills and more frequent home repairs. So, when it comes to home maintenance, start at the top and learn how to keep your roof in tip-top shape with these tips.
Get to Know Your Roofing System
You’re probably aware that your roofing system consists of more than just the outer shingles, tiles or metal material that gives your home great curb appeal. Are you familiar with how the underlying materials and systems are linked together to protect your home? Following are the basic materials of your roof and interlinking systems:
- Outer layer: Asphalt shingles, concrete tiles and metal are three of the most common roofing materials.
- Underlay: Under your roof’s outer layer is a layer of felt made of tar paper that provides extra water-proofing protection.
- Moisture barrier: A water and ice barrier is installed at the eaves.
- Decking: Plywood is the material of choice for your roof’s foundation.
- Timber: Rafters and joists make up your roof’s frame.
- Eaves: The eaves are the portion of your roof that extends beyond your walls.
- Fascia: Fascia board fastens to the end of rafters where your gutters attach.
- Vents: Ridge and eave vents provide ventilation for your roof and attic.
- Gutters: Gutters convey water runoff from your roof away from your foundation.
Tend to Your Gutters
Efficient gutters are necessary to convey water from your roof away from your home’s foundation. Clogged or leaky gutters allow rainwater runoff to soak into the decking, eaves and the ground near your walls and, eventually, soak into your attic, living spaces and/or your basement or crawl space. Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year.
Need Roof Repair? Don’t Delay
Inspect your shingles and attic each season and immediately after powerful storms. If you see shingle damage or signs of water in your attic, don’t delay. Call your roofing contractor to inspect your roofing system right away. The longer you wait, the more water and wind have a chance to cause damage.
Remember to contact your Charleston roofing contractor at least once a year for a roof inspection. For the best results, contact us at Tri County Roofing for the best customer service, roof repair, and roof replacements in town and all around!
