When it comes to comfort and safety, having a sound roof over your head is key. However, age and exposure to the weather can damage a roof, and repairs can be expensive and time-consuming.
Planning ahead and carrying out regular, small roof maintenance jobs will result in a roof that lasts for decades. Here’s a guide to what you should be doing.
An inspector calls
Inspect your roof regularly, looking for leaves and other debris. You also want to make extra checks after storms with heavy winds, and walk around the house from time to time, as this will enable you to check for fallen tiles. Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of leaves, check for breaks in the seams, and ensure that the guttering is securely attached to the house.
Trim and proper
Trees that grow too close to your roof can be a hazard, so make sure you remove any overhanging tree limbs. When it comes to animals, check that squirrels, birds and other small creatures haven’t made nests on or under your roof. Keep a close eye on signs of insects as infestations can seriously affect the integrity of a roof. Soft rotten spots, shredded wood or sawdust and insect faeces are all signs.
See also: Roof Garden: The New Eco Trend
Insider knowledge
Roof maintenance also means checking the underside of the roof by going into the attic. Look for streaks or staining, and signs where water may have trickled around the chimney and vents. Soft spots in the wood could indicate an animal or insect infestation.
Time to insulate
According to the Renewable Energy Hub UK, up to 25 percent of heat lost in a house escapes through the roof. Insulating your roof or loft to a recommended thickness of 270mm is the best way to stop heat from escaping, and can help you cut down considerably on your heating bills.
See also: Invest in a Roof that will Last a Lifetime
Blanket loft insulation
Common and easy to install, this is made from mineral or glass fibre and comes in foil-backed rolls, which can be placed between joists.
Loose-fill insulation
This is made from flame retardant lightweight fibres and can be used in difficult to access spaces.
Blown-in insulation
Here, cellulose mineral fibres are blown into a loft space using specialist equipment. It’s quick to install and good for spaces where access is limited.
For more visit: www.renewableenergyhub.co.uk
See also: Raising the Roof
