Roofing Tips Everyone Should Know

South Jersey roofing can be expensive and labor intensive. A fit and knowledgeable homeowner can often handle minor problems himself, but it’s important to know when professional help is needed. No matter what the situation is, there are always precautions to take when working on the roof.

Safety Is Number One

Safety should be the number one priority when doing any type of roof work or maintenance. Any misstep or oversight could result in serious or fatal injuries. It’s important to not go on the roof when it’s raining, wet, or icy. This means that the homeowner or roofer should take his or her time when doing a roofing project or inspection; it’s imperative to wait until conditions are safe. Even if the conditions for the roof are perfect, it is still a dangerous situation. Wearing the proper shoes and gear is important. Using a harness is also helpful, but the number one safety precaution is to work with someone else.

Fixing Leaks

One of the common issues that homeowners face with their roof is leakage. This can be caused from a variety of factors. One of the simple ways to find a leak is to spray the roof with a garden hose. This will help isolate areas instead of having the whole roof soaked, like when it rains or snows. Full or clogged gutters also can cause leaks because water builds up during the rainy season. Ice build-up is a situation that can cause leaks and other problems. Since it’s not safe to go on the roof when it’s icy, this problem can be resolved with better ventilation and rain and ice shields. Roofs have valleys and ridges where two roofs meet. A valley is a common place for leaking, since that’s where all the water runs; this should be the first place to check. If all methods fail and the leak cannot be located, the family should call a professional since it might be an indication of a larger problem.

Know When To Stop

The residents can sometimes resolve South jersey roofing issues themselves, but every precaution should be taken. Having the confidence, knowledge and skill set to resolve roofing problems is a great asset and can save the homeowner money. On the other hand, making a mistake or guessing can lead to more problems and possible accidents, costing more time, energy, and money. Homeowners should take charge of their house but enlist the expertise of a professional when it is needed.