Schenectady Roofing in the Spring Season
Spring is finally approaching, and although we experienced an unseasonably dry and warm winter this year, it still could have wreaked havoc on your home and more importantly, your roof. Spring is the best time to have your roof inspected because it gives roofing experts the opportunity to repair any damage caused by the winter while also giving them time to prepare your roof for a potentially rainy and windy summer.
Depending on the condition of your roof going into the winter season, it’s possible that it took some damage as a result of falling temperatures, water or ice damage, and potentially large accumulations of snow. Although this winter was relatively warm, don’t be fooled! Warm daytime temperatures still give way to bitterly cold nights, and these drastic temperature changes can cause recurrent contraction and expansion that can damage metal components and roofing membranes. Ice dams, which form in the valleys of your roof due to poor drainage and low air circulation, can damage shingles, break seals, loosen gutters, damage tiles, and cause swelling, creating the perfect storm for pesky leaks.
These issues, if not addressed in a timely manner, can lead to major problems that will cost you both time and money. It’s best to call an inspector to check out your roof and see where it might need repair. Before an inspector takes a look at your roof, be sure to clean out your gutters and ensure that all of the channels are clear. This will help the inspector notice other problems with your gutters, such as missing bolts or loose seams. A professional will also check the collector heads and see to it that scuppers have good seals, because having a well-maintained roof means having well-maintained gutters. Gutters funnel melt, water, and other drainage away from your house, and if not properly sustained, they can create costly issues.
The first thing most professionals will do is inspect the interior of your home to identify any points where moisture may be infiltrating the building. They’ll then take a look at your roof to check for missing, curling, or deteriorating shingles. They’ll also be able to inspect ridgelines, around your chimney, and the trim around the edges in order to identify potential problems and figure out the best solutions for repair.
Coated roofs should also be checked for wear and tear. Weather checking and crazing, which produce visible fine cracks on the surface, are indications that a repair and re-coating is needed. Think about re-coating with a highly reflective material, since this can help you save some energy during the hot summer season.
Although many of these problems can be observed by you, the homeowner, it is best to hire an inspector who will be able to notice other problems that are not easily visible. Moreover, a professional will be able to determine the best course of action for repair, and can do so in a timely fashion. Preventative roof maintenance such as this is key, since attacking problems early on will prevent larger, more costly problems from emerging down the road. For example, fixing something as simple as a missing or curling shingle can prevent leaks that can infiltrate your foundation and create a domino effect of pricey problems. Make the best decision for your home and prepare for the summer by hiring an inspector. Now’s the time!
