November and December are excellent months for roof maintenance. In many areas, winter hasn’t arrived in full force, but you can still identify possible leaks, storm damage, and gutter blockages. When you address these problems early, you can prevent expensive maintenance headaches in the future.
What Equipment Will I Need?
You probably have most of the tools you need to perform your roof inspection. You’ll need the following minimum equipment:
- Garden hose that’s long enough to reach the roof
- Flashlight
- Ladder
- Roof rake for the gutters
- Safety goggles
- Sturdy work gloves
You may need additional tools for your specific circumstances, but these are the basic ones you should have available when you start your roof inspection. We also recommend that you never perform a roof inspection alone. You should always have a partner available for two reasons. For one, two sets of eyes are always better than one. Second, you need a backup in case of an accident. So, always perform your roof inspection with a partner.
What Tasks Should I Perform?
The following minimum tasks should be performed during your roof inspection.
- Visually inspect downspouts and gutters for clogs and ice dams. You may need roof access to complete this task.
- Check interior ceilings, including the attic, for signs of leaks or damage. Also, check the attic for leaks, ventilation issues, and insulation gaps. If you notice mold or water stains, you may have an urgent issue.
- Reapply sealant or caulk around all vents, skylights, and chimneys.
- Inspect the roof for ice dams. They can indicate a water leak under the shingles.
If you notice any damage, whether it’s damaged shingles, ice dams, or sagging areas, be sure to call us and schedule an inspection. We recommend that you prune any tree branches overhanging your roof so that they don’t fall during a storm and possibly damage your roof. For minor branches, this may be a DIY project. For large branches, we recommend calling a professional.
Keeping your roof free of debris and repairing damage as it occurs will extend the lifespan of your roof. Clean gutters and downspouts are necessary for proper function as well as deterring the buildup of unhealthy mold and rot.
Need an Appointment?
Make sure your roof is ready for the holidays! We’ve been serving the area since 1969, and we’re proud of the great reputation we’ve earned since that time. Our reputation has been built on our commitment to quality work, timeliness, and customer satisfaction. We’re sure you’ll be happy with our roofing services. Contact Bliss Roofing in Portland, OR today to schedule a roof repair for your home.