Roof Maintenance 101

A large majority of homeowners do not take good care of their roofs. If it doesn’t appear to be leaking, why bother? Ian Brown from Ian’s Home Services reveals why roof maintenance is so important.

Quite often, apart from storm damage, a small roof leak can fester away causing gradual damage that will not be exposed until water, mould or cracks actually appear to the naked eye.

By then, what was once a small drip could have already had a major effect on ceiling and wall cavity structural timbers. Let alone plasterboard ceilings and walls.

Along with cosmetic damage, which is usually when the resident decides to act, the integrity of the building is often compromised resulting in major works. Typically, this water damage is classed as gradual damage and not generally covered by most insurers, resulting in sometimes expensive repair bills.

Preventative maintenance can be carried out by the homeowner, but it is recommended that an experienced roofing technician is contracted to perform an inspection. The frequency would depend on the age of the roof.

General Maintenance
Unfortunately, there is no other way to inspect the integrity of a roof than to actually gain access to it. This can be quite a dangerous affair if not carried out by an experienced tradesman.

It is highly recommended that a roofing expert is engaged to not only provide an inspection on a regular basis but also to carry out any necessary repairs. They will usually have the appropriate safety equipment, and the knowledge on how to access a roof, and how to walk and act whilst working with heights.

Depending on the age of the roof, and the amount of surrounding vegetation, it is also recommended that gutters are cleaned at least annually. At this time the tradesman engaged can also take the time to inspect the roof and provide you with an inspection report.

Blockages in gutters can cause major flood damage, as water can flow over the back of the gutter and into the building. This can occur quickly during storm conditions. These events can be avoided on most occasions by way of regular cleaning.

However, a loose backyard cricket shot, and a wayward tennis ball isn’t going to help between inspections!

Summary
Yes, you can carry out your own gutter cleaning, and roof preventative maintenance, but you must follow safety procedures, and also be wary of electrical power lines.

Make a diary note for regular cleaning and inspections, looking for any loose roofing material, nails or cracked tiles, and contact and engage a roofing expert to repair anything that doesn’t look quite right.

Or –

Hire a tradesman to clean your gutters and inspect and/or repair your roof on a regular basis.

Frequency
Gutters – Once or twice a year, depending on surrounding vegetation, and maybe install a gutter leaf guard.

Roofs – Depending on the age and material, at least every two–three years and with older roofs, at least annually. Really old roofs may require more drastic attention, especially after stormy weather conditions.

Author Ian Brown is from Ian’s Home Services.