For almost 30 years, Roof Doctor, Inc. has been taking tons of calls in the dead of winter which are related to the four issues below.  Many times weather conditions have to subside before the repair can actually take place and damage can double, triple, or worse.  For these issues, and all other roof concerns, call us for QUALITY repairs and workmanship.

1.       Gutters & downspouts should be cleared free of debris so they are able  to maintain a contstant drain when there is rain, sleet, and snow.

2.       Never let your gutters freeze solid with ice and debris.  This puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the gutter system and can pull it away from your house, damaging the gutters permanently.  The fascia and roof can be compromised if your gutters pull away and the house and ceiling juncture can be compromised, letter water leak in.

3.       Down spouts filled with debris that have also frozen can start thawing at the gutter juncture, causing rot to the fascia, rotting soffit, and leaks into your house.  

4.       You will want to have your roof thoroughly checked for open voids under eves and soffits.  Critters such as raccoons, opossums, squirrels, snakes and birds absolutely take advantage of these areas and many, many times make these attic entrances even larger to live in your attic ALL winter long where the warm environment is excellent shelter from the winter variables.  These entrances also become prime areas for rain, snow, and sleet to blow in and cause a leak on your interior home ceiling.  Have these areas properly blocked off with custom cut metal exterior patches.  

Well, another day to wake up at zero degrees!  Folks, my phone has been ringing off the hook due to the snow and ice build up on our roof tops.  This is a SERIOUS matter and should be handled by a professional with experience.  Not only is getting on your roof dangerous in these current condtions, but further damage can also be caused during improper snow and ice removal.

Interior leaks are showing up frequently now in the houses I am visiting with snow and ice issues.  There are some measures we can take to help your situation.  Visit my webpage at http://www.leakyroofs.com/Ice-Dams---Roof-Snow-Removal.html for education on snow and ice and the havoc they play on your roof and gutters.

Picturesque snow-capped houses are charming, but don't be fooled by their delicate beauty. Snow has a great deal of weight, and that weight increases immensely when rain, ice and sleet are added to the mix. Two feet of snow on the average-sized roof can be the equivalent of 38,000 pounds, or 19 tons.  All of this weight puts stress on your roof and weakens its structure.  Complicating matters more, the melting of this mass can cause water seepage, which can rot roofs, destroy insulation, flood attics, ruin gutters and damage the interior of your home.

Call me today for a phone consult to discuss your situation. Roof Doctor, Inc. Steve Conrick, Owner 816-356-5463

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spring Maintenance Checklist:

1.  Look at the ceiling inside. Any stains or spots could be evidence of water damage, indicating loose flashing (metal strips that seal connections) or shingle cracks or leaks. They can also be a sign of ice dams, which could mean a problem with insulation or poor home ventilation.
2. Shingle/tile check. Look for any missing shingles, and examine shingle condition for any that are peeling, cracking, or losing their grain. Asphalt shingles that are losing their grain are in danger of starting to crack and peel with exposure to sunlight. A few damaged shingles can be easily replaced, but many shingles in poor condition means a complete re-roofing is needed. Curling shingles could also be a sign of inadequate roof ventilation.
3,  Clean the shingles. If moss or algae is growing on or between the shingles, this needs to be removed. This can be done by spraying moss remover solution on the roof, then using a broom to remove the growth. Serious mold or rot needs to be addressed immediately by a professional, as the roof may need replacing.
4. Shingle granule buildup. Excessive granules in gutters, downspouts and around the roof area are a sign that the shingles are worn and need replacing to prevent leakage.
5. Chimney and skylight. Check flashing connections between skylight, chimney and roof. Snow and wind can cause flashing to loosen and leak. Repair or replace any damaged flashing strips and seal cracks. Check the masonry joints of the chimney for damage or presence of efflorescence, a calcium deposit that could indicate water leaks.
6. Roof bolts. If you have a metal roof, check for any loose metal bolts and tighten them.
7. Gutters and downspouts. Examine the home siding for any evidence of water damage. Climb the ladder and use a trowel to scoop out debris, dirt and leaves out of the gutters. Tighten any spots where the gutter had come loose and flush any residue with the garden hose. Flush downspouts.
8. Soffit and Fascia. The vents in soffit and fascia are a favorite nesting place for small animals, who are drawn by the warm air. Come spring, these critters begin to reproduce, and if they find a way inside, you could be looking at serious damage inside your attic and home.
9. Yard assessment. Remove any dead tree limbs near the roof and trim overhanging branches.