subject: Protecting your roof one step at a time [print this page] Protecting your roof one step at a time Protecting your roof one step at a time
Single ply roofing does not need an excessive amount of maintenance, but in order to keep it in good condition there are a few steps you should occasionally take. While some of these can be accomplished on your own, many tasks will need to be handled by a professional roof maintenance team.
Your roof is your house's first line of defence against many forms of destruction; therefore it is important to keep it in good order. The most common cause of damage for single ply roofing is from water, and there are several ways to prevent water leakage. Checking your roof for debris on a regular basis, and then clearing any rubble, will help prevent this occurrence.
This is because many types of debris, and especially organic material such as leaves and branches, tend to clump together and can retain water. This water can soak into your roof and deteriorate it. Keeping rain gutters clear of leaves and other debris will help your roof drain water efficiently.
You should also check your flashings occasionally. Flashings are thin metal strips that are used to seal edges, corners, and other areas of the roof from water. Having damaged or missing flashings replaced quickly is a best way to avoid water damage.
The seams of single ply roofing can also split over time, and making sure they are sealed is incredibly important. Bubbles and blisters on the roof should not be tampered with, and it is wise to call a professional right away to deal with them. Be careful not to step on these blisters as they will puncture causing more problems than in the beginning.
Drains on your roof should be tested once or twice per year in order to ensure they are working correctly. If they are not draining as well as they should, a roofing repair team can fix the problem.
Overhanging tree branches and other sources of debris can be cleared from above the roof in order to prevent further debris from clogging gutters and piling up on the roof.
You can also check chimneys to ensure the mortar is not weakened, as a damaged chimney can cause significant harm to a roof if it falls.
These simply steps can protect your single ply roofing membrane, as well as your wallet from any real harm.
