Your roof protects your house from the elements throughout the year. In the winter, it may be exposed to heavy rain and snowstorms. Depending on where you live in the country, there may be times of the year when there will be high winds, hailstorms, and massive thunderstorms with lightning. All of these weather forms can play havoc to the roofing of your home.
Therefore, it is essential to be prepared and to make sure that you perform regular inspections throughout the year. We have put together these top tips to protect your roof against thunderstorms, so you can adequately weatherproof your roof.
Carry Out Regular Inspections
High winds, heavy rain, lightning, and snow can all cause damage to roof shingles. Any damage needs to be fixed as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further structural damage and leaks.
Take the time to walk around your property to see if there are any visible signs of damage. As part of your inspection, you should also carry out a thorough check of your attic. Some external damage may not always be visible, so have a look around the attic to see if there are any signs of water damage or any small cracks in the roofing.
Keep the Roof Clean
While doing the inspection, keep an eye out for any signs of moss or algae. Moss is particularly problematic, as it can absorb water, which will put pressure on your existing roofing tiles. The buildup of water can cause damage to your shingles, which can lead to leaks and water damage.
While black algae is more of an eyesore than anything, if it is left untreated, it can also affect the structural integrity of the roofing shingles. If you notice any signs of moss or algae, you should remove it as soon as possible.
Attend to the Guttering
The guttering system is absolutely vital for your roof’s defenses when it starts raining heavily. Your gutters move water away from your roof and exterior walls into nearby drainage. If gutters are blocked or damaged, the risk of water damage and leaks increases significantly.
You should do regular inspections of your guttering systems around the house. Make sure it is clear of any debris and blockages. Replace or repair any cracked piping. While you are doing your inspection, check to see if there are any sandy granules in the gutters. This can be a sign of damage to existing roof shingles and will require further inspection.
Take a Closer Look at the Trees
If you have a lot of trees and foliage around your home, these will need to be carefully managed. You don’t want trees that hang too far over your home, as these create an increased risk of damage during thunderstorms.
Falling branches are one of the leading causes of roof damage during storms, so it always makes sense to keep on top of this potential issue. Get a professional to trim any overhanging limbs or remove any dead branches or trees.
Most of these jobs can be carried out by yourself if you have the right tools and experience. However, if you aren’t sure about what to look out for or would prefer to leave it to the roofing experts, give us a call at (303) 698-0580
