subject: How To Maintain Your Built Up Roofing [print this page] Roofing is generally quite durable, but over time any roof will eventually require maintenance of some kind. Roofs can be damaged by a number of causes, from falling debris to weathering effects like rain and wind.
Your home's roof is one of its first lines of defense against the elements, and keeping it in good repair will prevent a number of types of damage to the rest of your home. Here, we'll go over some of the aspects of maintaining a built up roof, as well as which types of maintenance you can attempt on your own and which require the care of a professional.
The first step to maintaining a built up roof and checking for damage is to clear the roof of debris. This can typically be done on one's own, although some roofs are less safe than others, and if you are not confident in your abilities it can be left to professionals.
Debris must be cleared as often as possible, because leaves and branches can collect in piles on the roof and in gutters, allowing water to soak into the roofing and damage it. This can also create mold and algae, which can create further problems.
Built up roofing with gravel surfacing should be checked for bare spots, and these bare spots should be cleaned and then replaced with fresh gravel. Flashings, which are thin strips of metal used to guard edges and corners from water absorption, should be checked to find if any are missing or damaged.
Missing or damaged flashing should be replaced in order to keep water from damaging the roof. Blisters on the roof should not be tampered with, instead call a qualified repair technician and have them deal with it. Puncturing or otherwise tampering with a blister can cause expensive damage to a roof.
As far as roof maintenance that can be done by you, keeping your roof clear of debris and ensuring that water does not collect in any areas of the roof is the best way to reduce the chances of having your roof damaged. Moderate to severe damage to roofing, such as algae and mold growth, water damage, or areas of the roof that are physically damaged, should be handled by a professional.
Keeping your roof clean is a good way to avoid most problems, but if a problem gets worse having a qualified repairman handle it is the best solution.
