9/1/2016 5:57:00 PM by Gold Country Roofing, Inc.
Your home is your most valuable asset, and your roof protects the structure and interior of your entire home. Like everything else, a roof can't last forever, but you CAN take steps to make sure it lasts for decades. Skimping on your roof's maintenance can result in expensive repairs. Protect your investment (and your wallet) with these simple steps:
DON'T LET D.I.Y = "OOPS!"
We often get calls from clients who are experiencing a leak or some other concern, only to find the problem stems from their attempts to install or repair something themselves. While we understand their desire to take matters into their own hands, we advise you to proceed with caution. Read your roof warranty carefully before attempting any repairs or installing any item that could damage your roof and/or void the warranty. Third party entities, (for example, heat & AC unit installers), can also cause damage and void your warranty. Protect yourself and your investment from costly DIY or third party mistakes.
NOT EVERYTHING SHOULD "GO GREEN"
Dust, debris, algae, & "presents" from area wildlife... over time, this build-up not only becomes unsightly, but may also encourage deterioration of your shingles. Keeping your roof clean is important and so is the cleaning method you use. Harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing can remove the granules, damage the shingles and even void your roof's warranty. Periodically blowing off your roof is a good way to maintain overall cleanliness, but if the build-up has gotten out of hand, the spray nozzle on your garden hose can often do the trick. IMPORTANT: DO NOT power wash, and avoid spraying your roof at an upward angle that will force water up underneath the shingles.
AVOID A PILE-UP
With Nevada County's plentiful foliage it doesn't take long to accumulate a solid layer of debris on the roof. Roof shingles are designed to shed water rapidly downward and off the roof, so when debris is allowed to collect, the shingles are not able to drain and dry properly. Standing water leads to premature rotting of the shingles and growth of algae, and water tends to wick upward, finding its way up underneath the shingles and into your home. NOTE: When cleaning out your gutters, watch for any roof granules that have accumulated. Excessive granule loss is a warning sign that your shingles may be reaching the end of their life.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR
It's not always easy to spot a problem until it's become a big and costly one. Sometimes leaks can be difficult to diagnose even for seasoned professionals. However, anyone can keep an eye out for signs that their roof is in need of maintenance, repair or replacement, and take action now to avoid more expensive problems later.
YOU NOTICE:
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IT MAY BE:
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| Ceiling or Wall Stains, Mold or Mildew |
Leaking shingles, skylights, flashing, water pipes or siding; inadequate roof drainage (improperly installed gutters or gutter guards, collection of debris, etc.); inadequate attic ventilation
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Cracked, curled or buckling shingles
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Inadequate attic ventilation; improper shingle fastening or felt application; movement in roof decking; indication that shingles are at the end of their life
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Dark areas on shingles
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Environmental (pollutants, vegetation, dirt, algae growth, etc.), or may be a sign that shingles have excessive granule loss
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Decay of shingles or siding near roof; exterior paint near roof is blistered, cracked or peeling
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Leaks; inadequate attic ventilation
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