Saturday, July 11, 2015

Maintenance Tips Residential Roofing In Wichita, KS

Maintenance Tips Residential Roofing In Wichita, KS

By Jana Serrano


The roof plays a significant role in maintaining the structural integrity of any home. As the first line of defense against the elements, the roof provides protection for the house's occupants and their personal belongings from high winds, brutal sunshine, punishing winds, and soaking rain. Homeowners who properly maintain residential roofing in Wichita, KS can save money in unnecessary repairs and ensure the roof does its job for decades to come.

Homeowners should plan a visual roof inspection twice per year, or immediately following a major weather event. Individuals who are not comfortable with using a ladder to climb on the roof can call a local roofing contractor in Wichita to do the inspection for them. The purpose of the inspection is to identify any minor or major damage that needs attention.

This inspection should include checking the metal flashing to make sure it is securely in place, inspecting shingles for any signs of warping or cracking, and looking carefully at the surface to ensure there are no depressions or soft spots. Asphalt shingles need a granular layer over the surface for protection against extreme cold and heat. If the layer has worn away, the shingles turn brittle and are vulnerable to breakage.

Moss or mold growing in the cracks between shingles can do considerable damage over time if left unchecked. The best way to deal with this problem is to buy a removal solution to spray on the affected area. Gently sweep the debris away. Some homeowners make the mistake of trying to use a pressure washer and end up causing more damage.

To save the home's foundation from water damage, check the gutters for any clogs. When gutters are blocked, water pours out and down the side of the building. Remove all leaves, twigs, and dirt before flushing gently with water from an ordinary garden hose. Doing this after any major storm will prevent damage in the future and ensure gutters are ready for the next big downpour.

Fascia and soffits are made of wood and require regular maintenance to avoid premature deterioration. Adding a coat of paint provides further protection against the elements. Check for rot and have any soft areas replaced to keep rain water from working its way indoors through cracks in the eaves.

Loose flashing material is one of the leading causes of roof leaks. These aluminum or galvanized steel sheets are attached around ventilation pipes, chimneys, skylights, and in low spots on the roof to prevent water from getting inside. Problems with flashing include improper installation, wind damage, or deformation caused by ice forming under the edge. A qualified roofing professional can replace flashing to create a waterproof seal. In addition to protecting the interior from water damage, this will help improve the energy efficiency of the home by preventing heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer.

The home is among the biggest investments most consumers ever make. Maintaining the home's roof is important to protect that investment. With regular maintenance, a quality roof will offer decades of protection for homeowners and their families. Professional roofing contractors are available to help homeowners with semiannual inspections and to offer affordable solutions when repairs or replacement are necessary.




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