When renovating a house, we usually think about everything: colors, furniture, finishes, etc. The new house becomes the reflection of our efforts and dreams. But it is common to forget basic issues, such as the roof.
Whether in a newly acquired house or in the repainting of the house where you have lived for years, the roof deserves attention. After all, it is the roof that will protect your home from the bad weather that can leave a beautiful home with many problems.
In this article, you will find 3 tips on how to take care of your roof and also know when it is time to replace it with a new one. Enjoy your reading!
Understand why it is important to take care of the roof
The roof protects the entire structure of the house. Besides, it interferes with the room’s temperature. When a roof presents problems, you will notice some symptoms, such as
- infiltration in the walls
- stains on the walls
- peeling paint
- stewing;
- mold;
- leakage.
The causes can be many and will require investigation and possible renovation. But before it gets to that point, you can take some precautions to take care of your roof.
Here are essential tips on how to take care of your roof
Everything in life has an expiration date – and the roof is no different. However, it is possible to take some precautions so that you don’t have to do a complete renovation. Just pay attention and take care of the roof in main aspects.
1. Make sure the tiles are properly fastened
Roof tiles are essential to the structure. The first thing to do with them is to check that they are properly fitted. They can shift because of wind, rain, or even someone climbing on the roof.
Therefore, every 6 months or so, check if any tiles are out of place or if the roof is in need of reinforcement. This way you avoid water getting into the lining and doing great damage.
2. Maintain your roof tiles regularly
Roof maintenance avoids problems. In the case of roof tiles, broken or cracked ones should be replaced. In addition, it is important to check that they are in good condition – especially in a newly purchased house.
It is also essential to keep the roof and gutters clean, because dirt causes water not to flow in the right place, which creates extra weight on the structure.
Another important aspect is to see what is around. If you have a tree nearby, keep it trimmed so that branches or fruit do not damage the roof.
3. Check the roof's timbering
The base of the roof is usually made of wood. In this case it is important to know if this base has been installed according to the required roofing standards. Check that it is in good condition, that the slope is adequate, and that the laths, beams, and rafters are not damaged by insects or deterioration.
Another fundamental aspect is that it is insulated. For this reason, it is normal to have an under-cover between the woodwork and the tiles. If this part is well done, it will hardly ever be necessary to change the woodwork.
4. Watch out for cracks
Unfortunately, preventive maintenance on roofs is rare. This is only done when a mistake is made, because people don’t really remember that the roof can cause major problems.
However, it is important to make it clear that some models of roof tiles are subject to the action of bad weather on a daily basis. In this way, cracks and small holes can be formed, becoming gaps for infiltrations later on. These problems will only be noticed if the structure is preserved.
In other words, if there is no preventive maintenance, sooner or later you will encounter such issues. So be sure to take good care of your roof!
5. Ensure that the gutters are always clean
Keeping the gutters always clean is another way to take care of the roof. If dirt accumulates, rainwater will not be able to follow its intended destination.
Water is known for its capacity of locomotion, always finding a way to move. In some cases, the accumulation of dirt can be so great that the water passes under the tiles, increasing the chances of infiltration.
So, always remember to clean the gutters and the tiles. Ideally, this should occur every couple of years.
Double the care with the proximity of trees
Construction sites built next to large trees also require special attention regarding the roof. This is because it is common for trees to bear fruit and attract animals in search of food.
The fruits, when ripe, can fall directly on your roof, breaking some tiles and causing the aforementioned adversities. The same happens with seeds, especially the larger ones. There is also the risk of animals falling on the tiles and causing damage to the structure.
To solve this problem, it is necessary to keep the trees pruned, or even invest in the installation of protective screens with small openings that allow the collection of all items that fall on the roof. In addition, it is recommended to clean the roof every six months.
Know when it is necessary to change the roof
If the shingles are compromised, they must be replaced. It is essential to follow the same model so that they fit correctly. Now, if the house shows signs of a problem roof, it may be necessary to change the whole roof or some of its elements.
If the shingles are intact, it is possible that the issue is with the structure. You can fix it by replacing some parts, but it is essential to consult someone who understands – to avoid replacing more than is necessary.
If you want roof replacement to make your house look more stylish and beautiful, it is important to take some precautions:
- consult a specialist, because choosing another material may require changes in the structure;
- consider the region where you live and buy suitable materials;
- acquire quality and durable materials, so your roof will last for years.
Knowing how to take care of the roof is a way to keep the house beautiful and safe. A problem doesn’t always need major renovation. But if it is necessary, it must be done safely to ensure the best roof for a long time.