Becoming a homeowner for the very first time can be both exciting and somewhat overwhelming. After all, you are suddenly responsible for everything that goes wrong with your house – there are no more parents or apartment managers to handle issues that happen to arise!
At some point in time, nearly every homeowner fiend hiimself or herself dealing with roofing issues. Whether your roof gets damaged during a storm or a Carolina hurricane, or it simply reaches the end of its lifespan, knowing what to do when you need roofing work done is a crucial part of homeownership. In this guide, you’ll find some helpful advice that all first-time homeowners ought to know.
Know how to tell that your roof needs attention.
First and foremost, it is important to develop an understanding of the red flags that indicate your roof needs attention. If you notice any of the issues outlined below, make sure you contact a qualified contractor in your area of the Carolinas. Dealing with problems quickly will ensure that larger situations, like structural issues with the foundation of your home, don’t arise.
Aged materials – Depending on how long you’ve lived in your current North Carolina or South Carolina home, you may not know the last time a new roof was installed on the residence. If this is the case for you, and you don’t have access to the previous homeowners, it is smart to get an inspection at least once a year. This way, if your roofing materials are beginning to age, you will know right away.
Water spots inside your home – Often, homeowners don’t think about the fact that new leaks or water spots inside their houses can signal a major roofing problem. If you notice unsightly brown stains on your walls or ceilings, it is probably a sign that your roof is no longer doing its job properly because it is allowing precipitation to seep through. When water damage is ignored, it can cause serious problems, so do not let this issue persist.
Take proper care of your roof all year long.
There are certain roof maintenance tasks that should be completed – either by you or a professional contractor – on a periodic basis. Keeping up with these chores will ensure that you don’t find yourself dealing with an unexpected problem after it has already had the chance to worsen.
Schedule gutter cleanings – Your home’s gutter system actually plays a major role in the health of your roof. To make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning properly, make sure you schedule a professional cleaning at least once per year. In heavily wooded areas or other regions with a lot of trees, such as the mountains of North Carolina, a semi-annual cleaning is recommended.
Keep trees trimmed – When you make sure the trees near your roof are trimmed, the risk of damage is significantly reduced. During storms, overhanging tree limbs can cause major problems, so keeping all foliage pruned to a distance of at least three feet from your roofline is advisable.
The team at Hatch Homes is here to help if you need a new roof anytime in the near future. Contact our skilled crew to learn more about our pricing, services, and to ask any questions you may have regarding your specific roof replacement project.