Winter and a Bad Roof Doesn’t Go Hand-in-Hand

Winter and a Bad Roof Doesn't Go Hand-in-Hand-Chispa MagazineIt is now November and the cold weather has officially reared its ugly head. The worst thing is that November is not officially winter time, and there is even colder weather to come. But, now is not the time to sit around feel sorry, now is the time to get all those important jobs done before the Big Freeze arrives. The most important job is the roof. Although the roof may look fine, when was the last time you checked it was in perfect working order? Exactly. Here’s how to check if the roof is fine, and also how to make repairs, if needed.

Pay For The Pros
First things first – you don’t have to do it alone if you don’t want. You can pay a roofing company to come out and use all their expertise to make sure the roof is fine. Plus, they get to risk their bodies while you sit in your comfy armchair with a cup of coffee. Is there a better reason to hire a professional?

Take Safety Precautions
Before you get up there, it is important to note that going on the roof is a dangerous job. To begin with, the roof is high up any fall can be dangerous. But, because the weather isn’t good, the conditions on the roof make it even more hazardous. To prevent you from slipping and breaking your neck, wear a harness in case you do fall and wear boots with rubber soles. The soles add more grip on slippery surfaces. Another good tactic is to work with a friend. A friend can spot you and attend to you if the worst does happen.

Spray The Roof
To check for a leak, use the hosepipe to spray water on the roof. If there is a leak, the water will start to drip into the house. Get someone to stand in the attic and check for a leak and to tell you exactly where the leak is. That way you know where the damage to the roof is and where you need to focus your efforts. If there is no leak, you are a lucky person! Be careful with spraying in these conditions. The water can easily freeze and make standing on the roof all the more dangerous.

Check For Dry Rot
A common misconception is that dry rot is caused by moisture. The truth is that it is caused by a lack of ventilation where the air cannot escape. The air seeps into the wood and causes it to start rotting and eroding, which is a problem. Dry rot is easy to spot because it will be the tiles that are falling apart and that look weak.

Make Sure The Valleys Work Properly
Valleys, or ridges, are where the roofs meet. They act as a funnel for the water to run off to the ground or into the gutters. The problem is that they can take a huge amount of weight because it can be a big amount of water that builds up. Again, it is prudent to look for leaks, but it is also a good idea to make sure the valleys work properly. If the water doesn’t run off cleanly, there is a problem.

 

Photo by André Robillard

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Milo Senalle

Milo Senalle

Managing Editor at Chispa Magazine
As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.

Milo Senalle

As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.