Madison Roofing: Prevent Future Damage on Your Roof

Large pieces of hail can accumulate in the gutters.

Wisconsin gets its fair share of wind, rain, and hail. Powerful winds have the potential to rip shingles right off your roof. Hail and rain can add a considerable amount of stress. Large pieces of hail can accumulate in the gutters. Thankfully, you are not powerless against inclement weather. Be proactive by following the advice set forth below, and you might just prevent significant damage to your roof.

Keep Those Trees in Check

Trim your trees on a regular basis. The last thing you need is for long tree limbs to extend onto your roof. Such limbs are bridges for animals to venture onto your roof and wreak havoc. It is also possible for harsh weather to knock large and heavy limbs off trees and onto your roof, siding, and even your home’s windows.

All it takes is a single branch to rub against your roof for damage to be caused to the protective outer portion of shingles. Once this layer is compromised, a leak has the potential to follow. Keep those limbs trimmed and remove dead branches at least once per season. In general, tree limbs should be kept at least six feet away from the home.

Mind the Roof’s Condition

Have your roof inspected at least once per year. You can spot some problems from the ground, yet relying on a true roofing professional for an in-depth inspection is recommended. One of our Madison roofing professionals will get up on the roof and inspect it for surface bubbles, missing gravel, damaged shingles, and other problems that necessitate repair, maintenance, or replacement. Our technician will also inspect the roof’s flashing to ensure it is capable of preventing water from penetrating the structure. Let our roofing gurus handle this analysis high up on your roof so you don’t have to climb a ladder and maneuver this sloped surface yourself.

Clean the Gutters

Clean out your gutters and downspouts from time to time. These areas should be completely free of all debris. If you don’t tend to these spaces, leaves will eventually fall and accumulate in the gutters, blocking the pathway for rainwater. It is even possible for accumulation in gutters to become so heavy that they rip away from the home, causing considerable damage to your property. When in doubt, lean on the expertise of your Madison roofing aficionados to verify your gutters are properly cleared.

Select new Materials With Care

If you consult with a professional roofer and it is determined that your roof should be replaced, don’t select any old material. Opt for impact-resistant roofing materials to guard against heavy hail and harsh winds.

Secure Metal Siding

Metal siding and metal roofing should be fastened to the home’s frame with exposed fasteners like bolts, concealed clips, and screws. Make sure all siding edges are covered with molding or a metal cap. Key in on those positioned along the corners of the home.

Secure Potential Projectiles

It is possible for objects to be lifted with strong gusts of wind and sent flying up onto your roof. Secure everything from patio furniture to grills, storage sheds and other items/outbuildings with ground anchors like chains and cables.

Secure Your Roof’s Shingles

If strong winds blow shingles off your home, the structure will be quite vulnerable to rain and hail. Such an instance necessitates emergency roof repair. Make sure your shingles are firmly secured, and you will avoid this nightmare. A minimum of half a dozen staples or nails should hold every shingle in place.

The best Madison roofing professionals install staples or nails below the edges of shingles that overlap. It also helps to install a waterproof underlayment below shingles to guard against rain in the event that the wind blows shingles off the roof.

Craftsman Exteriors is a Madison, WI based Roofing and Exterior Home Solution Company committed to providing unparalleled service to homeowners. We provide distinguished expertise, free roof inspections and quality roofing repair & replacement services. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your roof call (608) 975-5747.