How to Avoid Costly Roof Repairs

While this New England winter has been relatively mild compared to past years, homeowners should still take notice and deal with any potential roofing issues before they become catastrophic.

Winter is often the hardest season on residential and commercial roofs, due to months of snow buildup and possible water damage when the snow finally melts.

If the right steps are not taken, homeowners could find themselves facing costly rooftop repairs. Here are a few maintenance tips that will help keep a roof in the best possible shape:

• Check the attic’s vents. Even as winter winds down, you never know when New England could be hit with one last storm. It is essential in these circumstances to have an attic that vents properly, as cool air entering the space means less snow and ice melting. An excessive amount of warm air collecting in the attic can directly result in ice dams forming in the gutters.
• Keep the gutters clear. Poor drainage is a major cause of roof damage, especially in the colder seasons. When water is not allowed to drain correctly, the water will often freeze in place. Homeowners will want to regularly clear leaves, dirt and other debris from the gutters so the water can run and not create any issues. Additionally, the water should be diverted away from the home so it does not seep into the foundation.
• Trim any surrounding trees. The winds in New England can be strong, no matter the time of year. When the wind picks up, branches that hang near the house can blow against the roof and strip off shingles or other roofing materials. In severe cases heavy branches can even fall from the tree and onto the house, causing untold destruction. To stop this from happening, trim back any branches that are too close to the house.
• Get a professional inspection. An evaluation of the roof will pinpoint weak spots that should be dealt with sooner rather than later. Homeowners can then address these problems before they can cause major devastation to the property. This inspection is a small investment that can actually end up saving money in the long run.

When it comes to repairing a roof, it is best to leave the job to the professionals. If there is damage to your roof that needs to be fixed, contact Burke Roofs at (781) 246-5622 or fill out our contact form for a free estimate!