Roof Maintenance on the Gulf Coast
Few elements of your home or business structure are as important as the roof. It literally covers the building and provides the first line of defense from rain, wind, sunlight and anything else in mother nature’s arsenal. The roof is one of the most crucial components in protecting your structure and failing to maintain it properly can be costly. Most of us know the importance of regular maintenance on our vehicle to keep it running properly and extend its life, but our roof is often overlooked. Just as a good mechanic will “check under the hood” looking for any problems in your vehicle, a professional roofing contractor can provide a thorough inspection of your roof. Efficiency and lifespan can be extended by exercising this same preventative care for our roofing system.
Residential Roof Maintenance
Our home is likely the biggest investment we will ever make and the roof plays a huge role in its protection. Unfortunately, other than its aesthetic appeal, we rarely give it consideration until a storm approaches. Exposure to the elements takes a toll on the roof which is why regular inspection is so important. The experts at Freeman Roofing suggest a thorough inspection twice a year. Leaks and other damage can be addressed before they can cause major issues. Additionally, it is always a good idea to get an assessment if your home has been subject to severe weather.
Commercial Roof Maintenance
Maintaining a healthy roof for your business is vital. Regularly scheduled maintenance can prevent costly repairs that could potentially interrupt or temporarily shut down your daily operations. Many commercial roofs are flat. Flat roofs are more susceptible to ponding (a situation that causes water to pool and stand in a certain location). Standing water is a major hazard that can result in leaks and other damage. Fiscally speaking, keeping your roof in top shape is imperative.
Metal Roof Maintenance
Metal roofs have grown in popularity in the last several years. They are pleasing to the eye and are a great investment. Although they may not have all the same issues of wear that traditional roofs have, they still require routine maintenance. Metal roofs are typically secured by exposed fasteners. Your semi-annual inspection should check that the fasteners are not loose. Metal roofs are much thinner than standard roofs. Consequently, they are more likely to get dents which hurt the aesthetic appeal. Walking on them can also cause punctures or low spots if not done properly. Additionally, metal roofs are extremely slippery. For safety and other reasons, having a professional complete a metal roof inspection is ideal.
Important Roof Maintenance Issues
Here are some common issues and concerns regarding roof maintenance.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clean
- Remove any debris or tree branches from the roof
- On metal roofs check for scratches or dents
- Inspect flashing especially in areas near chimneys, skylights, walls and drains
- Check for ponding/standing water
- Loose or peeling shingles require immediate attention
- Tighten/replace any hardware such as nails or bolts
- Clean areas of mold or mildew
- Check for missing or damaged chimney caps
Whether you choose to handle roof maintenance on your own or hire a professional, take proper safety precautions and observe as much as you can from the ground with binoculars.
Schedule a Roof Inspection Today
Semi-annual inspections, sometimes required after severe weather, can make a huge difference in your roof’s life expectancy. Make roof maintenance a regular priority to catch small issues before they become large ones. The local, licensed, professionals at Freeman Roofing have over 40 years of industry experience and provide thorough inspections with keen attention to detail and safety. Call our experts today at 850.994.1078 and leave your roofing maintenance needs to us.