Protecting the roof begins with making sure it’s kept clean and free from standing water. The roof protects the rest of the home, so it’s vital to make sure it is in good shape and that all of the water drains away from it whenever it rains. Improper drainage or issues with the drainage can end up causing issues with the roof and may mean the roof needs to be repaired, so homeowners will want to make sure they understand what to do to keep the roof in good shape.
Why it Matters
Water causes damage to the roof, which is why it’s so important for homeowners to learn about roof drainage and what they can do if there is an issue. Water on the roof can end up causing leaks or structural damage to the roof, damage the fascia boards or siffits, or cause issues underneath the roof, such as along the walkways or to the foundation of the home. It can even cause flooding in basements or crawlspaces if it’s not handled as soon as a problem is detected.
How to Make Sure the Roof Drains Properly
There are a number of components that are designed to help roofs drain properly when it rains. Homeowners should be knowledgeable about what they have and how it works so they can keep an eye on it and make sure the water is draining properly. It doesn’t mean the homeowner needs to be an expert, but they should know what to expect from their home. Compenents that may be used to help improve drainage include gutters, downspouts, and roof valleys or flashing installed to direct water down from the roof.
Signs of Drainage Problems
There are numerous signs that there may be drainage problems on or near the roof. Red flags can include gutters that are overflowing or sagging, water stains on the siting or basement walls, or the buildup of mold or mildew. Signs can also include wood rot under or around the roof or water pooling near the foundation of the home. In the winter, ice dams can form on the roof if the water from melting snow is not able to drain away from the roof. If any of these signs are detected, it’s important to take a closer look at the roof’s drainage to see what needs to be repaired.
Maintenance Needed to Improve Drainage
Proper maintenance throughout the year can help prevent drainage issues for the roof. This can include checking and cleaning the gutters, making sure the downspouts push water away from the home, and checking on the roof at least once per year to ensure it’s in good shape. If there aren’t gutters installed, adding them can help improve drainage significantly for the home. Professional help is avaialble to make sure the maintenace is done safely and easily.
Since your roof protects the rest of your home, you’re going to want to make sure it stays in good shape as long as possible. Part of this is keeping the roof free from standing water, so it’s important to keep an eye on the drainage for the roof and make sure it’s working properly. If the water isn’t draining away as expected or there are any signs of drainage problems, it’s important to call in the experts for help right away.