There’s nothing like the anxiety of dealing with a leaking roof! Of course, when we think about roof repair and maintenance, the goal is always to prevent leaks from happening–and repair them when they do. But how can you prevent roof leaks? Quality installation and routine maintenance are two of the best ways to keep your roof in excellent shape and keep water out.
- Invest in high-quality installation: starting with a solid structure when you get a new roof or build a home is the best way to prevent leaks. This means using a roofing contractor who’s licensed, bonded and insured. Checking references and online reviews is a must.
- Insist on high-quality materials. When building or replacing your roof, insist on high-quality materials. Investing in top-notch materials will cost more upfront but always pays off over the lifespan of your roof.
- Choose shingles from reputable manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed and Tamko. Invest in high-quality three-tab shingles or upgrade to architectural or luxury shingles. Your shingles should also include a warranty. Your contractor can help you choose based on your home design.
- Decking refers to the wooden boards that frame your home and serve as a foundation for your roof. Quality material is crucial.
- Underlayment is the protective material your contractor installs between the shingles and decking. Options include traditional felt (made of paper saturated with asphalt for water resistance) and synthetic materials. There are significant differences in quality depending on the manufacturer.
- Remove old shingles before you install new ones. Building codes often allow roofers to install new shingles on top of existing ones. It’s a time-saver, but we recommend removing the old material first in most cases. It lets us see leaks or damage under the shingles and creates a smooth surface for the new installation. There’s nothing like a clean start for curb appeal and protection from the elements.
- Prevent ice dams in winter. Ice dams occur when snow and ice melt and refreeze on your roof, creating a wall of ice on the edge of your roof. This allows water to build up under your shingles, eventually causing leaks. You can prevent ice dams by beefing up insulation to reduce heat loss through your attic. Reinforcing roof ventilation also reduces heat build-up in your attic and prevents ice dams.
- Improve ventilation on your roof. Adding and reinforcing your roof vents has numerous advantages, including preventing leaks. Ventilation helps prevent moisture build-up, mildew, and rot. It stops ice dams and protects your shingles by halting the freeze-and-thaw cycle. You can add ridge vents along the spine of your roof, box vents on the sides of your roof, soffit vents under the eaves of your roof, and power vents on the gable end of your home.
- Routine maintenance and regular inspections can help you identify and repair potential problems early.
What Are Maintenance Tips for My Roof?
Check the roof’s edge and ensure your gutters are correctly installed and in good condition. Gutters and downspouts are an essential element in preventing water build-up and leaks.
- Check skylights, chimneys, and vents regularly for leaks.
- Check your attic for signs of moisture, including mold and damp insulation.
- Schedule routine inspections and preventive maintenance with your roofing contractor. Getting professional eyes on your roof can help you catch potential problems early and make repairs before leaks and water damage occur.
How Can My Roofing Contractor Help Prevent Leaks?
In most home maintenance and improvement businesses, the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” applies. When we can prevent leaks and damage from happening, it’s almost always cheaper than fixing the damage after the fact. At DryHome Roofing and Siding, our guiding principle is to start with a top-quality installation and follow up with regular inspections and routine maintenance. Our company name says it all.
With our professional team, high-quality materials from trusted suppliers and reviews and referrals from satisfied customers around the region, you can have confidence our team will do their best to keep your home leak-free. Let us inspect your roof today. There’s no cost for us to take a look and it can pay off by giving you peace of mind.
