It’s the most wonderful time of the year – to prepare your roof for Texas’s unpredictable weather in the year ahead. Completing a roof maintenance check at year-end can save you time, money, and stress in the months ahead. Use this checklist to ensure your roof is ready for the new year.
Inspect for Damage
Texas’s storms, hail, and heat can take a toll on your residential roofing system. End the year by looking for visible signs of wear and tear, such as missing or damaged shingles, clogged gutters, algae growth, dents, cracked flashing, or sagging areas. If you have signs of water damage or leaks, such as dark spots, stains, or damp spots in your attic, it’s a sign that you need immediate repairs. Pay close attention to areas around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
Clean Out Debris
Your gutters play an essential role in the functionality of your roofing system, carrying water away from your roofing materials and the base of your home. If debris has gathered on your roof or in your drainage system, it can cause water to collect. This excess moisture can cause rot, mold growth, and leaks if left sitting too long. To prepare your roof for the year ahead, clear leaves, branches, and debris from the roof surface, gutters, and downspouts.
Examine Flashing and Sealant
Roof flashing acts as a barrier that prevents water from seeping into areas where the roof structure meets the chimney, skylights, and vents. If you see rust, cracks, or signs of deterioration on your roof flashing, it’s a sign that it needs to be resealed to keep out moisture. Waterproof sealant works with the roof flashing to divert water and prevent roofing leaks in the gaps of your roofing system. Check sealant for cracks, peeling, or signs of aging, especially if you see signs of water damage in your home.
Check for Moss or Algae Growth
Are you seeing a patch of green or black streaks on your roof? These areas of discoloration are moss, algae, and mold growth from excessive moisture. This can be a problem if your home is in a shady area or if debris is not cleared regularly. While moss and algae are most commonly found on asphalt shingle roofs, they can pose problems for tile, slate, and metal roofs as well. If you see signs of moss and algae growth, consult a professional roofing expert for treatment.
Review Attic Ventilation
Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that their residential roofing system begins and ends with the materials they can see outside their homes. However, your attic can tell you a wealth of information about the overall well-being of your roof. Proper roof ventilation prevents heat and moisture buildup in your attic. While performing your end-of-year maintenance checklist, ensure your vents are clear and functioning correctly. Look for signs of condensation or mold in the attic as a sign of poor ventilation.
Inspect for Pests
Are you unknowingly harboring more than your family in your home this winter? Pests such as raccoons, termites, and bats can make a living space out of your roofing system without your knowledge and cause severe damage over time. Look for signs of pest infestations, such as nests, entry points, or damage to roofing materials, and seal any openings to keep critters out. If you suspect or find evidence of a severe pest infestation, contact a professional to assess and handle the problem.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
Prevention is key to avoiding costly roofing repairs. Scheduling routine roofing maintenance is the best way to extend the lifespan of your residential roof. Even if everything looks fine, a professional roofing contractor can spot hidden issues. Schedule a professional inspection annually or after significant weather events.
Plan Repairs or Upgrades
Address any issues identified during your inspection promptly to address roofing damage before it becomes a more costly repair. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider planning for replacement or upgrades in the coming year. Completing your residential roofing year-end maintenance checklist can help extend your roof’s lifespan, avoid costly repairs, and give you peace of mind as you enter the new year. If you’re uncertain about any step or need assistance, contact a trusted roofing professional for guidance.
With extensive roofing experience in the Central and Gulf Coast Texas regions, we pride ourselves on understanding our community’s needs and ensuring that our customers’ requirements are at the core of every project. Contact us today to schedule your year-end roofing inspection. WorleyByrd is the word!
