Seasonal Roof Maintenance Tips

A house isn’t much good if the roof doesn’t keep out the weather, so it’s vital to make sure your roof remains in good condition throughout the year. Each season has its challenges, but this time of year, with winter coming, is the most crucial. Here are a few thoughts about roofing maintenance.

What Can the Weather Do to Your Roof?

The most obvious weather attacks on your roof are severe storms, like last winter’s Desmond, which can blow tiles or slates off, leaving gaps where the rain can get in. Sometimes, though, even normal rain or hail can pick away at the roofing materials, or result in the growth of damaging moss.

Ice is another risk in the winter. Because water expands when it freezes, any water that seeps into the tiniest of cracks will gradually force the gap wider each time it turns to ice. And the bigger the swing between daytime and night-time temperatures, the more stress your roof will be under.

What Steps Can You Take?

• Check your roof at least twice a year, and after any extreme weather. Ideally, it should be done close up (remembering to take all precautions if you use a ladder) but, if you can get a good view from ground level, a good pair of binoculars can reveal any damage.
• Pay attention to both roof tiles and any flashing or mortar for signs of damage, as well as checking your fascias and soffits.
• If you have moss growing on your roof, it will eventually damage the materials. It needs to be removed before you find yourself needing the roof replaced.
• Check indoors for any sign of leaks, including dampness on the walls or ceiling of the top floor. Also, check with the light off for any holes allowing daylight through.
• Clear out your guttering regularly. This is especially important at the moment when it will almost certainly have been clogged up with fallen leaves, but this needs to be done at least two or three times a year.

Professional or DIY

Unless you’re a trained roofer, though, it’s unwise to tackle replacement of tiles or repair of cracks yourself. These are expert jobs, and amateur attempts can do more harm than good.

If you need repairs or would feel safer putting regular maintenance in the hands of professionals, contact us to discuss your needs.