The benefits of regular roof maintenance

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 15:48:23 -0700

As you may already know, a roof is one of the most important parts of your home. A well maintained roof can last for decades, but if it's not properly maintained, you could end up with a leak.

Benefits of Roof Maintenance

Roof maintenance is a great way to keep your roof in good shape year-round. Here are just a few of the benefits of roof maintenance:

Roof maintenance prevents future problems: Maintaining the roof will help prevent damage to your house or even collapse of your roof. It also prevents water penetration into the walls, which can lead to mold growth and other issues down the road.
Roof maintenance maximizes the life of your roof: Roof maintenance is a great way to make sure your roof stays in good condition and lasts as long as possible. Regularly inspect the underside of your roof for damage or leaks, especially when it rains. Replace any damaged shingles immediately and patch any holes that are large enough to allow water into your home. In addition, consider having a professional complete a thorough inspection at least once per year. This will help ensure that any problems with the roof have been found before they become too serious to fix yourself.
Roof maintenance can help you save money on repair and prevent the need for replacement: There are several methods to keep a roof in good condition, but none is more important than regular cleaning. If you neglect your roof, it will eventually be time to replace it or repair it at an expense that can easily exceed its initial purchase price.
Roof maintenance gives you peace of mind: Knowing that your roof is in good condition and that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on a replacement due to poor maintenance, will give you the peace of mind you need to have a good night's sleep.

What is roof maintenance?

Roof debris removal

Debris includes leaves, twigs, and even trash that carries in the wind. To remove them, you should use a soft broom that won't be too aggressive, or a leaf blower.
Roof mold removal

Mold is usually the result of algae growth. To remove it from your roof, you can use a spray on a solution of chlorine bleach and water.
Roof gutter cleaning

It is important to perform this cleaning at least twice a year. All debris that accumulate inside the gutters should be removed with a gutter scoop.
Roof general inspection and repair

The condition of the roof should be monitored periodically, both by walking on it and by checking the humidity seen inside the house. If you have doubts about the condition of the roof, a good option is to call a professional, who will advise you on the best repair option.

The Essential Roof Maintenance Checklist

Check your shingles regularly
Look for leaks in your attic & ceilings
Wash your roof and remove debris and mold
Clean your gutters
Check and patch up your chimney
Control the sealing of your skylights
Get a professional roof inspection

Kind regards from the Moriarty Roofing Family.

Roof Fire Protection Recommendations

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 08:23:39 -0700

In the last few years, our county has witnessed wildfires that have caused damage and loss of homes. The Cal fire website is a wonderful resource in ensuring that your home is protected the best it can be. Below is an excerpt from Cal Fire:

Roof: The roof is the most vulnerable part of your home. Homes with wood or shingle roofs are at high risk of being destroyed during a wildfire.

Build your roof or re-roof with materials such as composition, metal, clay or tile. Block any spaces between roof decking and covering to prevent embers from catching.
Remove accumulated vegetative debris from the roof.

Vents: Vents on homes create openings for flying embers.

Cover all vent openings with 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch metal mesh. Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh because they can melt and burn.
Use Ember and flame resistant vents (WUI vents).

Eaves and Soffits: Eaves should be boxed in (soffited-eave design) and protected with ignition-resistant* or non-combustible materials.

Rain Gutters: Keep rain gutters clear or enclose rain gutters to prevent accumulation of plant debris.

Install a corrosion-resistant and noncombustible metal drip edge for additional protection of the combustible components on your roof’s edge.
Use a noncombustible gutter cover to prevent buildup of debris and vegetation in the gutter.

Zone 1 – Lean, Clean and Green Zone

Zone 1 extends 30 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc. or to your property line, whichever is closer.
Remove all dead plants, grass and weeds (vegetation).
Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof and rain gutters.
Remove branches that hang over your roof and keep dead branches 10 feet away from your chimney.
Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet from other trees.
Relocate wood piles to Zone 2.
Remove or prune flammable plants and shrubs near windows.
Remove vegetation and items that could catch fire from around and under decks, balconies and stairs.
Create a separation between trees, shrubs and items that could catch fire, such as patio furniture, wood piles, swing sets, etc.

Zone 2 – Reduce Fuel Zone

Zone 2 extends from 30 feet to 100 feet out from buildings, structures, decks, etc. or to your property line, whichever is closer.
Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of 4 inches.
Create horizontal space between shrubs and trees.
Create vertical space between grass, shrubs and trees.
Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones, and small branches. However, they may be permitted to a depth of 3 inches.
All exposed wood piles must have a minimum of 10 feet of clearance, down to bare mineral soil, in all directions.

Here's some links that may be helpful: