Rain is a wonderful gift of nature. The gentle chill in the air and the soft breeze brighten up the atmosphere. Plants start glistening with the much-needed wash, and birds fill the surroundings with melodic songs. Children jump around in puddles while adults enjoy the view with a warm cup of tea.
However, a drizzle might soon turn into a heavy downpour. Gradually, problems manifest, such as flooded streets and clogged-up gutters, while weak and faulty roofs are the number one target of the worst rains. These weakened structures prove to be quite an inconvenience for homeowners.
Thus, a beautiful daydream can turn into your worst nightmare and give you a run for your money. To spare you this trouble, we will be sharing some easy ways you can avoid jeopardizing the structural integrity of your home.
Install Sturdy Roofing
The primary way to protect your house from nasty rainfalls is to ensure that your roof is strong.
Whether you are in the process of building your dream home or are concerned with your already existing roof, it is always advised to get professional help. If your home needs roof repairs before selling, consider hiring Resnick Roofing for a professional and reliable job.
Use The Gutters
If you do not already have gutters, now is the best time to install them. These gutters collect all the rainwater falling and make a pathway to the drain. Without them, water can be on the roof and cause serious damage to the structure of your house.
Stop Water From Pooling
Water tends to pool on flat, surfaced roofs. This pooled water eventually accumulates and penetrates the walls. To avoid this issue, you should ensure proper sloping to assist drainage. If you already have a flat roof, you can contact a professional and alter your roof to accommodate the path of rainwater during heavy storms.
Always keep an eye out, and if you notice pooling, address this issue promptly to avoid serious consequences.
Fix Leaks
If you notice any patches on the roof, contact a repairer and get it checked as soon as possible. If these patches are left unchecked, they can increase in size and complicate the situation. This can turn into a real nightmare situation for you and your home. They tend to slowly cover the entirety of your roof, forming several leaks, especially if the floors of your house are carpeted. Wet carpets are not only unpleasant to walk on but also release very bad odors.
If leaks are left unaddressed, they can increase the probability of structural erosion and other damages, so it is always wise to be safe and spot changes in the roof earlier on.
Clean Gutters
Your job still needs to be completed when the gutters are installed. It is mandatory to inspect and clean them regularly. Clogged drains cause water to overflow and lead to ceiling damage. This water can lead to the growth of mold inside the house.
You can take on the cleaning task yourself or engage proper cleaners to look at them in case of an extreme clog.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
No matter how strong you think your roof is, it is important to get regular inspections. It is best to engage professionals to undertake this task. Experts are well-equipped to properly examine the situation and provide a reasonable course of action. These inspections should be carried out yearly to catch any issues early on.
Beware of Leaky Skylights
Skylights are a very aesthetic addition to your house and help let in a lot of natural light. However, they are extremely susceptible to leaks. These leaky hazards provide many ways for water to get into your house. This is why it is extremely important to install roof flashing around these skylights and check them regularly for any cracks.
It is always a good idea to beautify your house, but this should never be done at the cost of your safety and well-being. Always opt for consultations before embarking on structural modifications.
Check for Missing Shingles/Tiles
The presence of dark patches on your roof indicates damaged shingles. For this reason, it is important to be well aware of any signs of curling spotting or choppiness. If your roof displays any one of these signs, then you must get the misplaced tiles immediately fixed.
It is important to keep in mind safety concerns when inspecting your roof. Ensure you have a sturdy ladder, proper footwear, and a safety harness if needed.
Chop Off Hanging Branches
Tree branches hanging over your roof not only provide easy access for critters such as squirrels but can also scrape the tiles of your roof. Heavy rainfall and strong winds constantly graze the exterior. These can form sensitive spots that lead to leakage. To avoid this, look for overgrown low-hanging branches and give them a monthly trim.
It is better to contact professionals to chop off any unruly branches as it is a dangerous task. Those who are skilled in this area have the proper equipment and training necessary for this job.
Get Rid of Moss
Moss is greenish and aesthetically pleasing. However, it tends to hold water, ultimately weighing down on your roof.
If you notice moss in its early stages, a simple sweep may suffice. However, if moss has taken hold over time, it is necessary to eradicate it. You can choose to tackle this task yourself or contact a professional.
Conclusion
A sound roof is one of the most important components of a house. It gives you peace of mind and helps weather any storm, no matter how big. That is why it’s important to be vigilant regarding your roof and inspect it for any signs of damage.
Failing to address issues timely can cause you to suffer in the long run. The tips discussed above adequately address every angle through which you should inspect your roof, and by following them, you can ensure a sturdy structure and save yourself from all the hassle.
