Roof Maintenance
The roof is a vital factor in protecting your home and enhancing its look and value. Obviously the most common roof we see is composition shingle, usually a 30 year life variety. Components typically consist of underlayment felt, flashings: drip edge, counter flashings, roof to wall flashings, plumbing vent flashings, furnace and water heater flue flashed, chimney saddle and flashing. Additionally there are attic vents that penetrate the roof membrane, sometimes a skylight. Last is the fiberglass shingle product.
Most types of shingles are placed one atop another, like the feathers of a bird, and layered like stadium seats about three layers deep.
Common roof leaks appear at chimney penetrations usually caught as past water stains visible from within the attic space. Chimneys with saddle to divert water around the chimney are less likely to leak. Saddles have been a standard for 20-25 years. Many homes built before this time frame do not have saddles and this increases the chance of water intrusion often when there is ice buildup on the roof.
Older roofs which may be considered in good to fair condition have rotted rubber boots at the plumbing vent penetrations. These books (below left) will need to be replaced…patching theme with mastic is only temporary and will require annual inspection.
Ten percent of furnace and water heater flue collars (above right) are not sealed hence some moisture will penetrate this area detected as water stains on the attic decking beneath the furnace or drywall stain ceiling above a water heater.
After an excessive wind storm or strong wind and rain it would be prudent to walk the perimeter of your home to see if there are missing shingles from the roof or shingle tabs in your yard or adjacent area.
Obviously if there are roofing subcontractors in your neighborhood it is logical you will need an evaluation and get two to three estimates. It is important to hire a reputable local contractor so you will actually have a warranty on the work completed. Some contractors come into town from out of state after a large storm, piece together a temporary roofing crew and cannot be reached once the work is completed and the check has been paid. More to follow…
Contact for any questions you may have on roof maintenance.
Sincerely,
