Roof Maintenance Tips for Older Homes: How to Keep Your Roof in Top Shape
In some ways, homes are like people. Just like we need more medical checkups and attention as we age, your older home needs more care, too. Let’s talk about essential roof maintenance tips for older homes to help keep your roof in top condition.
Why Roof Maintenance is Crucial for Older Homes
The last thing you want is a serious roof problem. These issues can endanger not only your possessions but also the health and safety of everyone in your house. Here are four ways to spot potential problems and get help before they become major issues.
How to Spot Roof Rot in Older Homes
Start by checking the eaves of your home for signs of rotten wood. Peeling paint and insect damage are good indicators of water rot on exterior surfaces. Climb up into your attic and check rafters and the interior surface of the roof for signs of rotten wood. Rot on the interior surfaces of a roof will often show up as staining and discoloration. After a good rain, these surfaces can appear wet or may even drip. You can also climb up onto the roof for a closer look, although it’s always a good idea to hire a licensed and insured contractor to inspect the roof and avoid putting yourself at risk of falling.
Inspecting Chimneys for Potential Roof Leaks
It’s best to leave this one to a professional, but it’s important to mention. The interface between the chimney and roof is a common location for leaks. Flashing and other diversion tactics meant to keep water away from the chimney can break down over time. When this happens, you might see loose bricks or mortar from inside the chimney or from a vantage point outside the chimney. Take a moment to look at your chimney without getting on a ladder. Do you see evidence of loose or missing mortar? Loose or broken bricks? Signs of rotten wood or staining near the roof? If you do, get someone out to take a closer look.
Identifying and Fixing Roof Leaks
If you see any water stains on ceilings, signs of prior damage, drywall repair, or bubbled paint, you might have some serious leaks on your hands. Water travels a winding path of least resistance. If you’re seeing damage on the inside of your home, the damage in the attic is probably even worse. Skylights are another area where roofs commonly develop leaks. Inspect all the skylights in your home. If you detect sponginess along the corners, this is often an indicator of water leaking in from the roof.
Dealing with Multiple Layers of Roofing
Older homes may have multiple layers of roofing. Two layers of roofing are okay, but if you have more than two layers on your roof, you’ll want to tear them off and replace them.
Market Partner Spotlight: GAF Timberline Shingles
At Alair Homes Decatur, we pride ourselves on using only the best materials for our renovation projects. That’s why we typically use GAF Timberline Shingles for our roofing needs. Known for their durability, high quality, and aesthetic appeal, GAF Timberline Shingles offer excellent protection and enhance the look of your home. These shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, providing long-lasting performance and peace of mind.
If your roof has any of these issues and they are serious enough to warrant replacing the roof in its entirety, consider using composites, slate, metal, or shakes and fakes. If you need a renovation in Atlanta, be sure to contact Alair Homes Decatur.
Alair Homes Decatur is dedicated to helping homeowners renovate living spaces into dream spaces. We specialize in all areas of home renovation and redesign. And we are experts in adding style, flow, and functionality to your spaces. If you would like to discuss your next remodeling project with us, you may use the Contact Us link to get in touch.