1. Avoid Power-Washing Shingles
The concentrated spray may loosen the granules on the top coat of the shingles, which could void the warranty and cause damage. Instead, hire a professional to use a leaf blower, broom, or manual methods to remove dirt or moss. Don Huber, CR’s Director of Product Safety, recommends homeowners to hire professionals to ensure their safety.
2. Check Ventilation
Improperly installed soffits or vents can cause condensation to form on the plywood decking, leading to rot. Similarly, poorly placed exhaust fans can cause the same issue.
3. Keep Your Gutters Clean
Bobby Fischer, Vice President of Contractor Programs at GAF (a shingle maker), advises keeping gutters clean to prevent water accumulation and potential leaks. He also suggests trimming heavy tree branches that could damage roofing materials.
4. Insulate Attics & Cathedral Ceilings Correctly
Proper insulation helps prevent ice dams, which can cause costly leaks where roof planes meet. Take care with lighting in cathedral ceilings; poorly insulated lighting can melt snow and ice, leading to moisture damage in the roof decking. Installing self-adhesive waterproof membranes in certain roof areas can prevent ice formation.
5. Fortify the Roof
Consider a three-stage roof treatment if you live in an area prone to severe winds or hurricanes. Installers seal the decking with a special tape or sealant, use wind-resistant ring-shank nails, and secure roof edges with metal flashing.
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety can help you find a certified expert. Ian Giammanco, the senior director of IBHS’s product design and lead researcher, estimates that this upgrade will add $700 to $1,000 to the cost of a roof for a home measuring 1,500 square feet, or $1,500 up to $2,000 to a home measuring 3,000 square feet. You may be eligible for a home insurance discount for fortified roofing, which can help offset the cost.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which is the premier st petersburg roofing companies! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
