mike.parsons

Having a good roof is essential for your whole house and you must take proper care of it. In case your roof is brand new, you will need to do some regular maintenance to keep it in great shape but if it’s a bit older, you might be experiencing issues more often. If this is something you have to deal with on a regular basis, calling in an expert every time can be quite pricey. Luckily for you, there are some things you can do on your own that will help you deal with those roof problems and save you some money along the way. Take a look.

Inspect and clean the gutters

When talking about the roof, we don’t mean only the shingles. The gutters are also an important part of your roof that ensures your house’s structure is not damaged. Seeing as how they channel rainwater to the sewer, any blockages can result in them overflowing and harming your interior or foundation. These clogs are most commonly caused by falling leaves, which is why you should regularly trim any large branches that hang over the roof. If there is a blockage, you need some ladders you can safely stand on, gloves or a garden trowel to remove the debris and a power washer to remove the remaining dirt. Gutters can last for a very long time but you should still have them inspected at least twice a year. If you notice some holes or rust, you should look into replacing either a part or the whole system. Also, check whether there are any loose parts and tighten them.

Replace missing shingles

Another thing that you can do on your own is spot any missing shingles. Look at the roof from the ground and see if something appears off. Also, look for grain loss and discoloration. If any of these factors seem present to you, you can climb up to examine the shingles in question and replace them if need be. If there is any cement or nails where the missing shingles were, remove them in order to be able to slide the new shingles in. Fasten them using special roofing nails and cover them using caulk or cement to prevent weather damage. Make sure you are safe, of course, by taking all precautionary measures and using the right equipment.

Dealing with different kinds of roof

On the other hand, if you have a flat roof, your obligations are a bit different. For instance, water usually stands still in ponds on top of the roof, and you need to mop it regularly. You will probably have to open up the roof in order to see the damage and repair it. Once you’ve dealt with the issue and the area is dry, you need to patch up the hole in the roof.

Maybe you have a patio roof that needs some maintenance as well. The most common problems here are usually rust and leaks, so if you’ve noticed something, it’s best to deal with it as soon as possible. Another possibility is that the structure is missing some components such as hinges or bolts. If you live in Queensland, you will easily be able to find high-quality parts for patio roofs in Brisbane.

Repair the flashing

Flashing is an important part of the roof that prevents water from going under the shingles. Due to the weather elements, these parts can become loose and damaged. That can result in mold or leaks in your home. Don’t forget to check and repair the flashing around skylights, chimneys and valley areas. Use small roof fasteners to tighten them and seal any holes with roof cement. While you’re up there, inspect the state of the caulk, and if it’s cracked, scrape it off and apply new caulk.

These are just some of the basic things you should be aware of when it comes to your home’s roof. In order to be able to react on time, you have to keep an eye on your roof. First of all, look inside your home. Is there anything indicating there’s a leak? If yes, make sure to take immediate action and locate the problem. After that, you can decide whether you want to DIY it or turn to experts.