No matter where you live in the country, you will, at some point, have to endure harsh weather conditions. This is why waterproofing your home is so important, which often starts with the installation of a quality roofing system. As one of the area’s premier roofing contractors, allow Wadden Construction to offer some tips on how to prevent your roof from leaking.
Routine Flashing Inspections
Flashing creates a watertight seal where your chimney and roof intersect. Poor installation, a particularly strong storm or deteriorated sealant can lead to water leaks. You should have your flashing inspected every six months. This helps prevent leaks from causing damage inside your home. If your flashing is missing, rusted or separated from any roof part, have it replaced ASAP. You should also have new flashing installed when replacing your roof shingles so that it lasts as long as the new roof.
Don’t Skip Maintenance
Keep your roof surface clear of dirt and debris. Trees and bushes should be trimmed back often. Tree branches touching a roof will scratch and gouge roofing materials. Falling branches from overhanging trees can puncture shingles and other roofing materials. Leaves on a roof system’s surface can lead to moisture and cause rot, and leaves in the gutters can block drainage. It’s good to check your walls and ceilings for leaks on your own. However, a trained professional can spot the signs of roof leaks much better and can propose a roof maintenance program.
Don’t Neglect the Underlayment
The underlayment is the black paper laid over the plywood sheeting to seal the roof from snow, rain and ice. The use of a waterproof membrane, a sweat sheet or vapor barrier is often required. A good underlayment (usually made from 15 or 30 pound felt) between the roofing shingles and the sheathing is essential.
From roof replacement to hail damage home repair, Wadden Construction can handle any of your roofing projects. We’ll reduce the likelihood of roof leaks and ensure that your home is well-protected all year long. Our service area covers Fairfax, VA. Call us today at (703) 291-4544 to schedule a consultation.