Storm season is upon us, and with it comes harsh tropical winds that can wreak havoc on your home. Unstable, old or unrepaired roofs are the most likely to be damaged or even ripped off, leaving your home exposed to the elements.
Is your roof in good enough shape to withstand storm season? If not, then getting advice from a professional is highly recommended.
What is involved in a roof inspection?
If you’re assessing your roof yourself and you spot any potential issues (i.e. missing tiles, rust spots on flashings, cracked guttering, mould, etc.) then you should talk to someone about getting it fixed. In saying this, conducting a roof inspection yourself is a dangerous task.
A qualified roof inspector has more knowledge and experience about what to look for and what areas could be problems during a storm. Older houses may not also have roof tie downs in the rafters that newer houses do. If you’re not sure if your roof has these, it’s a good idea to ask the inspector to check.
They can also examine the roof from the inside by climbing into the roof space. This way they can check the eaves, linings and soffits for holes and cracks, and if animals or birds have created any damage or weakened the roof to gain entry for shelter.
The biggest advantage of using a professional roof inspector is that they can give you a detailed report on your roof. This allows you to see what roof issues you may have in the future and what the cost of repairs may be.
What you can do before storm season
You can help get your roof ready for storm season by being vigilant about clearing gutters and downpipes of branches and leaves. Accumulation of debris can cause gutters to rust or clog, and during a storm, you really want free-flowing roof-drainage. Otherwise, you risk water backing up and overflowing into the ceiling.
Big trees near your home can be dangerous in storm season, especially if they hang over your roof. Limbs can break off and smash through a window or injure someone. Leaves and other debris can also block gutters. Trimming and pruning tree branches will protect your roof from damage.
Assessing the damage
After a storm, it is important to get your roof assessed to see if any damage has occurred. You may also need to do this for an insurance claim. A damaged roof is less effective for insulation, fire resistance and drainage, and won’t fare too well in another storm!
Get a free roof inspection by a qualified Reno Saver builder today.