New Home Owner?

Rarely is your roof the first thing you think about when buying a home, but it’s one of the most important aspects of your house. The first time that many new homeowners think about their roof is when it starts to leak. The age, material and overall quality should be considered before you even buy your home. In today’s post, we’re going to look at what every new homeowner should know about their roof.

Know the Lifespan of Your Roof

Your roof won’t live forever. An asphalt roof, for example, will last roughly 15 to 20 years, and that’s not even considering the chances of individual shingles needing to be replaced if they are missing, cracked or curling. If you’re moving into a home, be sure to ask the age of the roof, because if it’s near the end of its lifespan, you will likely be paying for its replacement.

Leaks Are Often Where You Least Expect Them to Be

When people imagine a leaking roof, a picture of a porous, vulnerable attic comes to mind. However, this isn’t always the case, as roof leaks are not always obvious. Water and moisture can enter sneakily through the flashing, sidewalls, valleys and skylights. Something as simple as a missing nail can provide the opportunity for water to invade. If your ceiling’s paint starts to bubble, your walls begin to discolour, or there’s mildew in your attic and upper floors, you likely have a leak. These signs aren’t always obvious, and you’ll have to pay close attention to the appearance of your home. Once you notice a potential leak, don’t hesitate to call a professional to fix it.

Keep the Gutters Clean

The gutters of your roof are instrumental for ensuring the safety and functionality of your roofing system stays intact. During the fall and spring seasons, clean out any leaves, dirt buildup and debris from the gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to an outbreak of mold and mildew, and they can cause leaks that can be costly to repair. Gutters are often neglected by new homeowners, and it’s a mistake that you shouldn’t make.

Inspections Are Key

Hire a professional roofing contractor to conduct a thorough inspection of the current roofing structure. Take note of any issues, and don’t be slow to fix them. Roofs are prone to problems, and if those problems become major issues, it can become quite costly to repair or replace the roof. Consistent maintenance will ensure that your roof will be healthy for years to come. Contact Mountain West Roofing for a professional roof inspection today.