Phoenix roofing companies like Four Peaks Roofing will tell you that preventative maintenance is the best way to take care of your residential or commercial roof, which, depending on the roofing material, could be the most expensive component of your home or business.[1] It’s also the most expensive component to maintain. Even a single day’s work could cost thousands of dollars.
Insurance companies frequently don’t cover neglect-related roof repair costs. So, homeowners and business owners could be stuck with the price of a repair-related roofing project.
The professional roofers at Four Peaks Roofing know that Ben Franklin’s words of wisdom (a stitch in time saves nine) are more than a catchphrase. They’re part of our customer service philosophy. These “stitches” vary according to the seasons. In the Valley of the Sun, we have two seasons (summer and less summer), but that’s not true in other places. Hopefully, this guide will serve owners well in Phoenix and wherever else they go.
Fall/Winter
Fall and winter in Arizona are more like spring and summer in many parts of the country. But that doesn’t mean you can put off routine maintenance.
Trim the Trees
Dormant trees are much easier to trim. The branches are more fragile, and there’s less mess to clean up. As for the trimming itself, this guide[2] is a useful, if somewhat overdone, resource.
As is often the case with roofing maintenance, one area makes another easier. Trim trees don’t fill gutters with debris, making them easier to clean.
Clean the Gutters
Coincidentally, cleaning the gutters is the next item on the to-do list. Clean gutters are vital to a healthy roof. The drainage systems keep water away from your home or business. If they get clogged up, water begins to seep through the roof. Remember high school geology? Over time, a small amount of water greatly reshapes a landscape, for better or worse.
Gutter cleaning is usually an unpleasant DIY project, but safety must be ensured first. Use a sturdy ladder, coerce or bribe someone into holding it, and use proper work gloves.
Inspect the Chimney
A fireplace is a showpiece in Arizona. Because most people light fires once or twice a year, at most, they often neglect chimney maintenance. That’s a big mistake.
Ensure the caps are securely fastened before the blustery winter winds begin blowing. The chimney cap is usually the only defense against the elements. It also prevents debris from pouring down the chimney.
Ask Professionals Phoenix Roofing Companies to Inspect the Roof
Usually, a roofing company includes chimney inspection as part of the roof inspection, which means homeowners don’t have to crawl atop roofs. Professional inspectors also spot subtle signs of damage that non-professionals miss, like tiny bits of sunlight coming into the attic.
On a somewhat related note, do not seal attic vents. According to popular myth, sealing attic vents during the colder seasons keeps cold air out of the attic. Yet, while it may seem counterproductive, having cold air flow through your attic helps control the temperature so the roof doesn’t overheat.
Spring/Summer
A roof inspection, either a DIY or professional inspection, is an integral part of spring/summer roof maintenance, as is gutter cleaning and tree trimming. Some new items should be on your checklist as well.
Remove Moss and Algae
A little bit of water could cause significant damage, and a little bit of water could cause considerable moss and algae growth.
Moss and algae thrive in winter and spring primarily because of the additional moisture and shade. Spring is the best time to examine your roof for these fungi and remove them. They can grow between and under your shingles, causing them to lift.
Moss and algae are a cosmetic issue as well. Due to the amount of moisture they can hold, they often cause rotting and discoloration. Periodically cleaning your roof helps avoid moss and algae buildup.
Check for Pest Infestations
Since bugs and rodents also like shelter and moisture, they may have taken refuge under your roof during winter. It’s essential to check that you don’t have any infestations that could harm your roofing.
Severe infestations require professional exterminators. If you see some evidence of a mild infestation, you can probably take care of that yourself.
Examine Attic and Roof Ventilation
Ventilation is so important, especially during hot summer months, and your attic and roof play an important role. Additionally, it’s so important to ventilate your home because heat and moisture buildup cause roof damage. Check for any damage, debris, or blockage on ridges, gables, or roof vents to ensure your home is well-ventilated. Do the same for soffit vents along the underside of your roof’s eaves. Look inside your attic for any signs of moisture, such as condensation.
Contact Professional Phoenix Roofing Companies
To learn more about roof maintenance tips, contact us.
Sources:
[1] https://www.bankrate.com/real-estate/cost-to-build-house/
[2] https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev7_016046.pdf
