The roof is one of the essential elements of your home, and one that performs a variety of functions. It keeps you protected from the wind, rain and snow, and it also keeps the heat in when you need it. Yet, it’s not going to las forever – no roof will! The problem is it’s easy to overlook your roof when looking at your home. You don’t often look up there, it just does its job and you take it for granted! There are many problems that can come about where roofs are concerned, and if damage is not repaired, you can be looking at great expense.
A lot of the problems that can occur with roofs – even the minor problems – require professional roofing services providers to repair them effectively. It is not recommended you try and make your roof repair a DIY job, unless you happen to be a roofer! What problems should you be looking for, and how do you spot damaged or problem roofs?
Leaks and Blockages
After a storm it might be worth checking your downpipes. These connect to your gutters and are designed to carry water from the gutter – which in turn has come from the roof – down to the drainage system at ground level. If you notice that a downpipe is not draining water, or you suspect one is damaged, you may have a problem. Water the overflows from a gutter, which may be blocked or broken, will flow down the wall, and this will cause damp.
This is a major problem that should not be left alone, so check your downpipes for signs of problems regularly. Also, look for pools of water on the roof where they should not be, as this is another sign of blocked gutters, and have a look to see if any tiles or shingles have become misplaced – if you’re not sure, use a pair of binoculars for a better look! Then, call out the experts who will help assess the damage and give you a free quote for a professional repair.
Moss and Snow
Other problems you might not have considered come from two entirely different sources: the growth of moss on the roof which can take over very quickly, and snow lying on the roof after a fall. Moss should be removed by a professional using the latest power-washing equipment, as if it is left to grow it can cause cracks between the shingles and tiles, letting water into your roof cavity.
Heavy snowfalls are also a potential problem, and with low roofs this is one you can tackle yourself. Make sure you use a snow rake or shovel to move snow from the roof as soon as you can, and ask the experts in if you can’t reach. Snow that is left is heavy and can damage the roof, and when it melts it leaves a lot of water with nowhere to go.
Check your roof next time you have a chance, and contact your local roofing specialist for a thorough check. If you’re looking for a reliable roofing company in the Bath area, then give Empire Roofing Bath a call.