A roof system is compound of several elements that work together to provide three basic, essential functions fir your home shelter drainage designed to shed water , directing it to gutters and downspouts . Air intake and outtake vents keep fresh air circulating below the roof sheathing , preventing moisture and heat buildup .
When your roof system develops problems that compromise is ability to protect your home flashing the damage quickly spreads to other parts of your house . Routine inspections are the best way to make sure the roof continues to do its job effectively.
Ice dams occur when melting snow refreezes near thieves , causing ice back up under the shingles , where it melts onto the sheathing and seeps into the house .
Inspect both the interior and the exterior of the roof to spot problems. From inside the attic , check the rafters and sheathing for signs for water damage . Symptoms will appear in the form of streaking or discoloration . A moist or wet area also signals water damage .
Wind weather and flying debris can damage shinglers . The areas along valleys and ridges tend to take the most weather related abuse. Torn, loose, or cracked shingles are common in these areas.
Buckled and cupped are usually caused by moisture beneath the shingles. Loosened areas create an entry point for moisture and leave shingles vulnerable to wind damage .
A sagging ridge might be the weight of too many roofing layers . It might also be the result of a more significant problem , such as rotting ridge board or insufficient support for the ridge board.
Dirt and debris attract moisture and decay , which shortens the a roof’s life. To protect shingles , carefully wash the roof once a year using a pressure washer . Pay particular attention to areas where moss and mildew may accumulate .
In damp climates, it’s a good idea to nail a zinc strip along the center ridge of a roof, under the ridge cap . Minute quantities of zinc wash down the roof each time it rains , killing moss and mildew .
Overhanging tree limbs drop debris and provide shade that encourages moss and mildew . To reduce chances of decay , trimming limbs that overhang the roof.
If you have unfinished attic , examine the underside of your roof with a flashlight on a rainy day. If you yo find wetness , discoloration , or signs of moisture , trace the trail up to where the water is making its entrance.
Water that flows toward a wall can be temporarily diverted to minimize damage . Nail a small block of wood in the path of the water ,and place a bucket underneath to catch the drip. On a dry day, drive a nail through the underside of the roof decking to mark the hole.