In the summertime, it’s essential to fix any existing damage, as high temperatures can cause further deterioration if you don’t properly address the issues. Check out these essential roofing maintenance tips for the summer to keep your roof in good condition.
Inspect Your Roof
Inspecting your roof is a key step in keeping it safe and well maintained. Look for any signs of wear and tear. If you have an asphalt shingle roof, check for damage, such as curling or missing shingles.
You should also check for damage if you have a different roofing material, like clay tiles or metal panels. Also, check your flashing, chimney, and vents. Keep an eye open for signs of leakage or mold and mildew. Getting a professional roof inspection is helpful to ensure no areas are overlooked.
Check the Eaves
In addition to checking the shingles and flashing around openings, inspecting your roof’s eaves is also important. The eaves are located at the lower edge of your roof and can be prone to collecting debris from windblown leaves or nesting materials from birds or bugs.
Before you start any exterior home project – such as replacing roof, fixing the foundation, getting a new driveway, expanding the porch, and any other major exterior home project, run some financial numbers to determine whether the renovation is a smart investment.
The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.
Review these cost-related issues to remodeling vs. buying a new home.
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The 2nd step for planning your exterior home project is deciding what you would like to do.
Will it be a –
- replacing the roof and/or gutters,
- adding new siding,
- updating the porch and home entryway,
- installing a new driveway and/or walkway,
- addressing foundational issues,
- decorating the exterior with trim, shutters and more decor,
- or something else.
Start collecting ideas by referencing our collection of home structural analysis: view directory
Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.
The spec plan determines what type of exterior home project materials, items, and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each structural element.
You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.
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| developing the spec plan | |
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Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a structural contractor.
Give your exterior home project ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis. Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.
Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.
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| selecting your contractor checklist |
| contractor negotiations | |
| contractor evaluation form |
Step 5 is arranging financing once you selected the contractor and finalized the contract for your project.
Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for exterior home project. Start with a home equity line of credit or use the bank equity program.
Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.
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Step 6 is where the project begins.
It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing necessary connections, putting in the final touches, etc.
It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the home remodeling project inspected before releasing any funds.
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If left unchecked, these materials can clog up gutters, preventing water from draining properly off your roof. If not addressed promptly, this issue creates a buildup that leads to moisture damage, such as warping and rotting over time.
Assess the Insulation
Insulation is another key area to assess during your summer roofing maintenance. Poorly insulated roofs can lead to higher energy bills and an increased risk of moisture damage due to condensation buildup in warm, humid climates.
Check your attic insulation for any weak or damaged material letting hot air into your home this summer. Make sure there are no gaps along the edges where outside air can get in, and replace any worn material with fresh batts or blown-in insulation.
It’s helpful to know how to improve attic insulation for the best results.
Make Repairs or Replacements
After thoroughly inspecting your roof, eaves, and insulation, address any issues you find. If you notice major signs of damage, repair it as soon as possible.
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You can easily replace a few missing shingles with new ones. However, if your roof is experiencing severe wear and tear, it may be a better option to replace it altogether. Always opt for professional installation if you are unsure how to do the job yourself.
Now that you have a roofing maintenance checklist for the summer, you can use these tactics today. Remember to follow proper safety precautions when performing any roofing-related jobs or contact a trained professional to do the job.
Find Roofing Services Roofing Gutter Systems Chimney Pest Control top-rated, pre-screened local contractors FREE: download contractor selection enter zip code – powered by HomeAdvisor ™
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