Owning a home comes with a lot of responsibility. Part of that responsibility is ensuring your home is in good condition, and one important part of that is the roof. Not only does it keep you and your family dry, but it also protects your home from the elements.
Regularly checking your roof can help you catch any potential problems before they become big headaches. In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps of conducting a complete roof inspection. We’ll also discuss how a roof coating can help extend the life of your roof. Let’s get started!
The Benefits of Roof Maintenance
Your roof is exposed to the elements every day. It takes a beating from the hot sun to the cold rain. Over time, this exposure can lead to damage. Your roof needs to be inspected and cared for regularly. Here are just a few benefits of proper maintenance:
Prolonged Roof Life
No matter how well it’s made, any roof will eventually succumb to the elements. But with regular roof maintenance, you can extend the life of your roof by years. If a typical roof can last for 20 years, roof maintenance can help it last for 30 years or more! When it comes to roof maintenance, don’t procrastinate – a little bit of effort now will pay off big in the long run.
Reduced Repair Costs
Of course, roof maintenance won’t completely eliminate the need for repairs. But by catching problems early, you can avoid major damage (and the hefty repair bills that come with it). In many cases, roof maintenance is cheaper than repairs! If you’re looking to save money in the long run, roof maintenance is a good place to start.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Another benefit of roof maintenance is improved energy efficiency. Keeping your roof well-maintained can prevent heat from escaping in the winter and cool air from escaping in the summer. This will keep your home comfortable all year round and even help you save money on your energy bills!
Catch Issues Earlier
It’s always better to catch a problem early, and that’s true for roof maintenance, as well. By conducting regular inspections, you can identify minor issues before they turn into extensive (and expensive) problems. Don’t wait until there’s a leak in your roof – conduct an inspection today.
The Steps of a Roof Maintenance Inspection
Now that we’ve talked about the benefits of roof maintenance, let’s discuss the steps of conducting an inspection. While roof maintenance can seem like a daunting task, it’s not that difficult – as long as you know what to look for. Here are the steps of a roof maintenance inspection:
Start on the Ground
The first step is to start on the ground. You’ll want to look for any obvious signs of damage, such as missing shingles or leaks in the roof. If you see anything that seems out of the ordinary, make a note of it and check it out during your inspection.
Inspect the Gutters and Downspouts
The next step is to inspect the gutters and downspouts. Remove any debris blocking the gutters and ensure they’re securely attached to the roof. Then, check the downspouts to ensure they’re draining properly. If you see any signs of damage, make a note of it and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Check for Cracks or Blisters in the Roof
Once you’ve inspected the gutters and downspouts, it’s time to look at the roof surfaces. Check for any cracks or blisters in the roof. These can be signs of serious damage and should be repaired soon.
Inspect the Flashings
The next step is to inspect the flashings. The flashings are the metal pieces used to seal around roof vents, skylights, and chimneys. Over time, they can become loose or damaged. If you see any signs of damage, make a note of it and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Check for Signs of Wear and Tear
Finally, check your roof surfaces for any signs of wear and tear. Look for any loose shingles or missing granules. These can show that your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan. If you see any signs of wear and tear, have your roof inspected by a professional or consider a roof coating system.
Let’s Move Forward!
Now that you know how to conduct a roof maintenance inspection, it’s time to develop a plan to restore your roof! A roof coating system is one of the great ways to protect your roof and extend its lifespan.
What Is a Roof Coating System?
A roof coating system, also known as a “cool roof,” is a seamless, monolithic (single-ply) membrane applied directly to the roof deck. It can be used on both commercial and residential roofs. Roof coating systems have several benefits, including:
- Increased lifespan
- Improved energy efficiency
- Enhanced reflectivity
- Reduced maintenance
- Prevent costly repairs
- Resist abrasion from foot traffic
- No need for a professional roofer
- No need for roof replacement
Signs That You Need a Roof Coating System
If you’re not sure if your roof needs a roof coating system, there are a few things you can look for. Here are some signs that it’s time to invest in a roof coating system:
- Your roof is more than 20 years old
- You’ve been noticing leaks or water damage
- Your energy bills have been increasing
- Your roof is showing signs of wear and tear
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s time to consider a roof coating system.
The Types of Roof Coating to Consider
There are three main types of roof coating to consider: acrylic, silicone, and elastomeric roof coating.
1. Silicone Coatings
Silicone roof coatings are the most expensive type, but they’re also the most durable. They’re made from silicone resin and provide excellent protection against UV rays, ponding water, and high temperatures. It can be applied to various roofing substrates, including concrete, metal roof, asphalt, and single-ply membranes.
2. Acrylic Coatings
Acrylic roof coatings are somewhere in between in terms of cost and durability. They’re made from acrylic resin and provide good protection against UV rays and ponding water. They can also be applied to various roofing substrates, including metal roofs, asphalt, single-ply membranes, and concrete.
Acrylic coatings are a good choice if you’re looking for something that’s more affordable than silicone, but will still provide good protection for your roof.
3. Elastomeric Coatings
Elastomeric roof coatings are the most economical option and are made from rubber or acrylic. They provide good protection against UV rays, ponding water, and high temperatures. Elastomeric roof coatings can be applied to various roofing substrates, including concrete, metal roofs, asphalt, and single-ply membranes.
How to Choose the Right Roof Coating for Your Building
There are a few things you’ll want to consider when choosing a roof coating:
The Type of Roof – The type of roof you have is the most crucial factor to consider. For example, acrylic roof coatings are an excellent choice for metal roofs, while urethane roof coatings are better for asphalt shingles.
The Climate – The climate you live in is also an essential factor to consider. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you’ll want to choose a roof coating that can withstand the heat and cold.
Your Budget – Your budget is another important factor to consider. Roof coatings can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on how much roofing material you need to cover.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post has helped you understand the importance of conducting a yearly roof maintenance inspection. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. If you’re looking for a way to help extend the life of your roof, be sure to check out our roof coatings.