” Be grateful for the home you have, knowing that at this moment, all you have is all you need.”
-Sarah Ban Breathnach
If you are a homeowner, performing the upkeep is part of being grateful for it. We do many things regularly in our homes to maintain it. From clearing a garden of weeds to painting an interior wall, homeowners spend many weekends working on home projects.
However, one task that is often overlooked is getting or performing regular roof inspections. That one task could save a homeowner thousands of dollars in damage and is one of the most critical maintenance procedures everyone should do.
A roof inspection can catch problems such as missing shingles, plants or moss growth, leaking or cracks in the roof, curling or buckling shingles, debris in the gutters, sagging or drooping roof, and pest damage such as holes from squirrels or bugs. Getting a roof inspection is essential; this is why:
Warranty Repairs
Many homes come with roof warranties. Homeowners should keep copies of their documents in a safe place for quick
access. Having a professional inspect your roof or examining it yourself, you can catch problems quickly. Manufacturers may cover some if not all of the repairs needed on your roof if you are within the warranty period. Talk to a professional roof inspector to see if you should claim the damages on the warranty.
Leak Assessment
The difference between a patch job and a complete roof replacement can start with a tiny leak. A roof inspection includes finding any leaks and determining the process for repair. If a leak is allowed to remain dripping water and elements down into the wood and insulation of the home, the homeowner may be looking at costly repairs. Early and regular roof inspections prevent the need to replace insulation and sub-flooring and avoid damage to the drywall and framing.
Storm Damage
You should inspect your roof whenever a major storm rolls through your Wisconsin town. High winds, hail, and other weather actions cause water infiltration. If not taken care of right away, rot and mildew can grow and cause further damage to your roof.
Pest Damage
A pest infestation causes structural damage to your roof and your attic. These creatures gnaw on wood, insulation, walls, and more. If you hear running around in your attic or go into your attic and find scratch marks on the floor or furniture, it may be time to get a roof inspection to determine if you have a compromised structure. Small creatures chewing their way into your home are common in the midwest. Maintaining your roof is key to keeping these creatures outside where they belong.
Proper Drainage
A proper roof inspection will include the evaluation of your gutter or drainage system. The drainage system in your home is vital to keep leaks and moisture penetration off the house. Drains should be clear of debris, including sticks, branches, bird nests, and leaves. A solid drainage system prevents ice dams in winter and water damage in summer. It also helps prevent foundation issues because water running down along the foundation’s side can cause damage and buckling.
Cost Reduction For Repairs
We all enjoy spending our money on vacations and fun things, not repairs. However, if homeowners do not keep up on the maintenance of their homes, they may be looking at spending a lot more for repairs than expected. Regularly scheduled roof inspections help to prevent these costs from growing. We suggest having your roof inspected at least once a year. Homeowners should also check their roofs after any extreme weather event.
If it has been more than a year since your last roof inspection, consider contacting a professional like High Quality Contracting, Inc to come and inspect your roof for damage. Your peace of mind is worth it.