Residential roofing appears to be a boring topic.  Except for roofing contractors or other residential roofing specialists, who would want to talk about residential roofing?  How about home owners?  One of the most important elements of a home is the roof.  Therefore it’s essential for homeowners to be up to date on the subject of residential roofing at least as far as it pertains to their own residence.

Location, location, location is often discussed as the #1 rule in real estate, it’s just as important when it comes to residential roofing.  Roofing needs vary by region and include such elements as need to withstand tree limbs, wind resistance, fire resistance, ability to withstand heavy snow fall, and even color when it comes to a good looking roof for the area.  Residential roofing needs are quite different in a northern, cold and snowy region than they would be in a southern hot and dry region.  For home buyers it’s important to understand the features and maintenance needs of the roof.  For home builders, particularly if they serve as their own general contractor, selecting the right roofing material for the region is essential.

Since purchasing pre-built homes is more common, let’s examine some maintenance practices that ensure best performance and longest life from the roof.  Timing is right at the top.  Proper maintenance should begin the second the roofing system is complete.  This will ensure a long term savings.  Immediate maintenance includes inspecting the work and checking the contractor’s license, insurance, and whether all aspects of the roof were installed to manufacturer’s specifications or to local government guidelines.

After six months to a year the roof should be inspected for debris such as sticks, leaves, and even garbage such as aluminum cans, and those debris removed.  This should be repeated at least once a year.  Also further ensure proper drainage by cleaning gutters at least once a year.  Leaks will develop if the roof can’t properly drain.  Leaks cause a great deal of damage, including the possibility of mold that can completely destroy a home.

After only a few years the material at the bottom of vent and other roof protrusions, called pipe boot, may need to be replaced.  This is particularly true in states like Oklahoma that don’t require pipe jacks to be made out of long lasting lead.

A roof needs inspection twice a year.  Keep in mind a simple practice of having the roof inspected when the clocks spring forward and fall back.