In the friendly, welcoming state of Nebraska, homeowners can take advantage of all the natural beauty and outdoor activities the state offers, including hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting. However, it's important to remember that Nebraska's weather is harsh, with extreme temperatures and storms that can cause damage to your property. Stay vigilant and take care of your home to protect it from the elements by maintaining it throughout the year.
With sweltering summers and brutal winters, taking care of a to-do list on fairweather days should include roof maintenance. Take a look at these easy ways to maintain your roof and keep it in good condition. A good homeowner knows the best ways to maintain their roof and when to call in a professional.
Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Proactive maintenance is key to preventing costly repairs. Make sure to regularly inspect your roof for issues such as water damage or missing shingles. Ignoring these problems can lead to more severe damage and ruin your home. Don't let minor issues become major disasters - stay on top of your roof's maintenance to keep it in the best possible condition.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends that homeowners have their roof inspected twice a year, in the spring and fall. While there are many simple maintenance tasks that you can handle on your own, it's always a good idea to contact a professional for these annual inspections. Local roofing companies in Lincoln, NE, help ensure that your roof is in good condition and catch any issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach can save you money and protect the value of your home.
While the first part of roof inspection starts in your home for any stains that may indicate water leakage, we do have a handy checklist for what to look for when performing your routine roof maintenance. Make sure to check for:
Missing or loose shingles
Shingles that are lifted
Worn spots or exposed spots
Peeling, cracking, or curled shingles
Loose flashing
Loose hardware, such as nails or roof bolts
If you notice any of these problems, replace the shingles immediately. Shingles that are displaced can signal mold or algae growth and water damage.
Clean The Gutters
No one likes hauling the ladder out to clean the gutters, we get it. However, don’t undervalue what your gutters do. Without free-flowing gutters, rain falls off your house and causes damage by collecting around the foundation. Not to mention, obstructed gutters filled with leaves and debris cause flooding underneath your shingles, leading to water damage and leaks. Use a leaf blower before it rains for an easy cleaning job.
Don’t ignore the other parts of your roof, either. Soffits, fascia, and downspouts should all be a part of your routine roof maintenance checklist. A soft-bristle brush that wipes away dirt or grime on your gutters and downspouts keeps them looking wonderful and functioning nicely.
Scrub Away Algae And Moss
While most of us regard moss as mostly harmless, if unattractive, it actually causes damage in the long run. Algae is another potential home ruiner, destroying your shingles. The roof is an ideal growing ground for moss and algae. To avoid discoloration and other damage because of warm and humid conditions, scrub off any moss and algae you find during routine roof maintenance. Roofing contractors in Omaha, NE can help check your roof for tree droppings and other signs of algae and moss damage during a free inspection.
Seal Up Leaks
During the rainy season, some areas are prone to leaky roofs and cracks that need to be repaired or sealed immediately. A professional will thoroughly examine your property and offer recommendations for sealing gaps or patching holes to prevent water from entering your home. Don’t take a chance with how harsh Nebraska’s thunderstorms can be.
While it can be challenging to estimate the exact cost of water damage to homeowners on a yearly basis, water damage can be expensive to repair. Water damage can also lead to other problems, such as mold growth, which adds to the overall cost of repairs. Minimize the rest by ensuring your roof is in good condition and is not too old to handle the weather.
Spruce Up The Trees And Branches
Nothing is more expensive or frustrating than an old tree or a big branch crashing down on your rooftop. While there is a myriad of situations where a tree might fall on a house, each one causes a dangerous situation. You can avoid this devastating event by trimming branches around your home, keeping an eye on old or unstable trees, and having them removed before they become a problem.
If you have experienced this unfortunate situation, you know large trees cause significant damage. While sometimes it is evident that a tree is a fall risk, other times it is hard to identify a potentially problematic tree. Trees tolerate internal damage for an extended period before they fall or are toppled by harsh weather. Hiring a bi-yearly inspection from professional roofing contractors in Omaha, NE can prepare you to spot potential problems before they become devastating.
Professional Roof Maintenance
Investing in periodic inspection and maintenance of your roof is a smart move that can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Although property owners can do regular home maintenance, roof maintenance is better left to qualified professionals. Depending on your location, look into roofing companies in Lincoln, NE, or roofing contractors in Omaha, NE. Don't hesitate to reach out to qualified professionals to ensure that your roof is in the best possible condition.
Murray Roofing is Nebraska’s best roofing company, with over 17 years of experience. With free inspections and estimates, you can be sure you’re getting exactly what you need at an affordable price. Give us a call at (402) 557-8790 from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday for all of your roofing needs.
