“The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” - John F. Kennedy
With the rainy season coming up, it is important to ensure your roof is prepared by performing annual inspections and making the necessary repairs. Like your car, your roof needs maintenance and inspections to function at its best. Inspections help to identify simple issues and repair them before they become large problems.
The following lists are items that are common to most buildings and should be checked annually. This list should provide a basic guide of what to look and watch for to help you get the most value from your roofing investment.
1) Make sure the gutters are clear of debris and that downspouts are clear and flowing. Clogged drains on a flat roof can lead to major leaks and may cause the roof to collapse if the water cannot drain off correctly.
2) Pipe and vent flashings should be checked to ensure the flashings are solid and in place with no missing parts. The sealant around the flashings should be checked as sealant dries out and loses its elasticity over time. Furthermore, changes in temperature can cause sealant to open up and create gaps where water can enter between the pipe and flashing.
3) If your building has skylights make sure they are properly sealed and secured in place. If the skylights are not sealed properly they can allow the inside heat to escape increasing your utility bill. Improperly sealed skylights can also allow wind-driven rain to enter the building. If a skylight is not secured properly it can be blown off in heavy winds.
Routine maintenance prevents more expensive repairs in the future. Inspection of your existing roof assembly is highly recommended prior to the onset of the winter season.
If you have questions or would like a complimentary roof inspection, please contact us at (916) 481-6293 or send an e-mail to leaks@watsonroofing.com
