Architectural grade shingles add curb appeal
Most homeowners never give their roof a second though until there’s a problem like a water leak. But most people can inspect components like composition shingles and flashing and make minor repairs. This is even more important in areas subject to a lot of winter snowfall.
Depending on conditions, a quality shingle roof should last at least 15 to 20 years. Of course, events like hurricanes and hail storms can cut it much shorter. There’s a reason why we carry homeowners insurance policies!
First, Look for Foundation and Structural Problems
One-story homes are easier to inspect than multiple story ones. The first thing to do is to stand out in the street and give it an overall eyeball survey. Any unusual dips in the ridge line can indicate a foundation problem. It could also be due to wood framing and bracing problems in the attic but that’s not a common situation. If your home has either of these problems, that’s just become your first priority.
Now it’s time to drag that ladder out of the garage and climb onto the roof. If you anticipate any repairs, take a rope with you so your helper can load up a bucket of any tools and materials you may need and you can use the rope to pull it up and lower it down. Standard disclaimer: only go on a roof if you’re physically fit for it, and have a helper steady the ladder and then monitor you from the ground.
Inspect and Make Minor Repairs
A good strategy is to walk the roof in a systematic fashion and look for problems, kind of the way forensic techs do at crime scenes. I like to start at the top and work my way down so I don’t step on any repairs I make. Check for shingles that are cracked or have tabs that are overly-chipped. These should be replaced.
Are there any exposed roofing nail heads? Put a generous dollop of roof cement on these. Check your flashing. Flashing is that galvanized metal found between the fascia board and the edge shingles and around chimneys, skylights, stink pipes, air vents, etc.
Generally speaking, metal flashing doesn’t go bad and will outlive the composition shingles. But it can rust, especially where the galvanization is chipped or scratched. You should sand off the rust and then either prime and paint it with exterior paint or coat it with some roofing cement.
Do this inspection and repair routine annually or semi-annually and chances are that you’ll save money in the long run. And while you’re at it, it’s a great time for you to clean rain gutters.
