New Year, Better Home: Getting Your Roof, Siding and Windows in Shape – Part I: Roofing

Finally bringing home improvement plans to life is a common New Year’s resolution for many homeowners. For those of you who are now ready to give your home a revamp, here’s a three-part guide to the most important aspects that you must look into: roofing, siding, and windows. We will take a look at the importance of having these three prioritized, and how you can go about finding and solving possible issues.

Roof Inspection: Why and When You Should Have It Done
Roof inspection is a preventative maintenance task that must be done at least once or twice a year. This will help make sure that the roof continues to perform as intended to for as long as possible, and that you don’t void your warranty. It is best to hire a professional to do the job for you, as they have the necessary skills and equipment for the task, but it is also important to know a few basics about roof inspection.

When to Do It
Roof inspections are best done before and after the most severe weather or season. Minnesota, for instance, has a continental climate where cold winters and hot summers are common and spring brings severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. As we enter the new year, it is recommended that you have your roof inspected after snow has stopped falling and before spring officially comes. This way, you can solve issues and repair any damage left by the winter, preparing your roof for the next season.

What to Check Out
Hiring a reputable contractor gives you peace of mind knowing that your roof will be properly and thoroughly checked. Take note that an inspection will cover both the interior and exterior portions of your roof, tackling issues like:

• Roofing Exterior. Torn, bald, or missing shingles; loose or worn out flashing around chimneys, pipes, vents, and other penetrations; excessive amount of shingle granules in the gutters, which indicate advanced shingle wear; Signs of moisture, mold, and rot; loose, detached, or clogged gutters and downspouts; and other signs of leaks such as discoloration and water stains.

• Roofing Interior. Sagging roof deck components; damp or rotting deck sections; dark spots or trails in the attic or deck; and sunlight showing through the roof.

Your roof is built to last but you also need to look after it to ensure that it is performing as it should. Don’t wait until you have actual rainwater falling on you to take action! The sooner you address problems, the sooner your roof gets back into shape and back to protecting your home and your family.

In the next post, we will be discussing another important part of your home that needs attention as the new year begins: your siding. Head on over to Part II to learn more!