Your home is your personal oasis that provides sanctuary, shelter for you and your family, and safety from outside environmental elements. That’s why it’s essential that you regularly inspect the structural integrity and function of your roofing and gutter systems every year. Throughout Austin and Central Texas, we encounter severe weather that commonly damages roof systems in the form of extreme heat, hail, strong winds, heavy thunderstorms, and occasionally snow. Below are 5 tips for homeowners that will help you prepare your roof for the storm season and what to do if you find or suspect storm damage.
Repair Missing Shingles or Cracked Flashing
The first step to take in preparing your roof for severe weather is to complete an inspection of your current roofing and gutter systems.
· Do you have any broken or missing shingles?
· Are there any small leaks already forming?
· Is your roof flashing intact?
Your roofing shingles are layered to protect the inner layer of your roofing system. If you have missing or broken shingles, water can potentially leak into your roof and, eventually, your home. Similarly, roof flashing is a thin material, typically made of galvanized steel, that lines vents, chimneys, skylights, and other roofing features to serve as a protective seal against the elements. Ensuring roof flashing is installed correctly and maintained is vital to keeping water out of your home.
Fix Any Small Leaks
If you have a leak in your roof, no matter how small, fix it immediately so that it doesn’t lead to more costly problems such as mold growth, rotted framing, higher energy bills, or damaged ceilings and walls. Small leaks can quickly impact the structural integrity of your roof.
Trim Nearby Trees
Taking care of overhanging branches will help minimize the amount of debris that collects on your roof, protecting your gutter system and reducing your risk of damaged shingles. Maintaining nearby trees will also make it less likely that heavy branches will fall on your home.
Check Your Gutters
Your gutters are responsible for carrying water away from the structural foundation of your home. If your gutters are clogged, dirty, cracked, or undersized, they won’t be able to function correctly, and longer-term water pooling around your foundation can create a host of structural problems throughout your home.
Schedule Annual Maintenance
Regular annual maintenance and inspections are the best way to prepare your roof for severe weather and prevent damage before it occurs. During a routine inspection, a professional roofing contractor will check your roof for any broken shingles, check your roof flashing, assess any potential leak points, remove debris, and recommend cleaning your gutter system if needed.
At WorleyByrd Roofing & Restoration, we have years of experience, and our employees complete rigorous, proprietary industry-leading training to be equipped with the best knowledge to inspect roofing and gutter systems thoroughly. We serve Central and Gulf Coast Texas and know first-hand how to prepare your home for the severe weather throughout this region. Contact Us today to learn more about our roofing and gutter services and schedule your free inspection!
