If you have issues with your roof, the worst thing you can do is wait. Crucial tasks, such as applying sealant and debris removal, become more urgent when the fall and winter hit. Stay on top of your roof maintenance with these three tips from Gotcha Covered Contracting in Carnegie, PA.
Seal Holes and Cracks
How would you like to save 20% to 40% on your next heating bill? All you have to do is fill in the holes and cracks in your roof. These crevices let warm air from inside your house escape through your attic.
Small roof leaks can undercut your home’s energy efficiency. They’re most common in your roof but can also form around your doors and windows. The more leaks you have, the harder your HVAC system needs to work to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
The best way to seal a hole depends on its size and location. If your gaps are under three inches wide, buy low-expansion polyurethane foam. The sealant permanently closes the opening within two hours.
Caulk is ideal for air leaks that are less than a quarter-inch in width. While the material is more expensive than low-expansion polyurethane foam, it performs better in extreme temperatures and near non-porous roofing materials. You should also place weatherstripping in your attic if you find leaks near your access hatch.
The key is to locate your air leaks, which can be tricky since they’re often small and hidden behind the insulation. Gotcha Covered Contracting makes your life easier with thermal imaging. The high-tech equipment provides a colorized visual of your indoor airflow, so finding air leaks takes seconds, not hours.
Check Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for a healthy roof. If you do not have adequate airflow, your attic will retain moisture, increasing its likelihood of water damage and rot. The lack of warm air in your attic also makes it more challenging to indirectly melt snow during the winter.
Roof vents provide a straightforward and affordable solution. Cut a hole in the roof away from the underlying rafters. Once you remove any obstructions, place the vent squarely in the opening and nail the lower edges to the roof underlayment. Apply the roof cement and attic vent cover for the final steps.
You can also install soffit vents, which allow fresh outside air into your attic. With a jigsaw, cut a hole in the ceiling that’s one inch shorter and narrower than the vent. Screw the vent with the fins facing toward the house. Add baffles in your attic to improve the new airflow.
Invest in a Roof Rake
If you live near trees or shrubbery, your roof probably collects organic debris year-round. Small clusters of sticks, leaves, and pine needles shouldn’t raise a red flag. If you leave them unchecked, though, they can create problems.
If you do not have gutter guards, many of the leaves will go into your gutters. Enough leaves in one area will cause a clog, restricting the water flow and creating pools on your roof. These wet spots can invite unwanted pests, like mold, mildew, and fungi, into your home.
Stop the potential damage with a roof rake. The extendable device lets you knock down unwanted debris, and because it doesn’t have teeth like a traditional rake, it won’t damage your shingles. You can even use it to remove snow from your roof.
Get your roof ready for the fall with a helping hand from Gotcha Covered Contracting. Our team of roofing professionals has years of experience winterizing homes across the Carnegie, PA, area. Give us a call at 724-581-8147 for a roof inspection or consultation today.
