Extend a roof’s life expectancy with preventive maintenance

By Dave Locklear, Arrowstar Roofing

(Originally published in OKC Friday)

You had leaks for years, but finally installed a new roofing system and now you won’t have to worry about anything for several years, right? Wrong….

Preventive maintenance should start the day the roof is completed. Proactive and preventive maintenance will extend the life of your roof and save you money in the long run.

A lot can happen to a roof in six months to one year, especially in Oklahoma. Not only is Oklahoma’s weather extreme, but we are a state that does not require roofing companies to have a state license like plumbers, electricians, etc. We have to solely accept the fact that our roofer has installed the roof according to manufacturer’s specifications and he’s honest.

With over 30 years experience in the roofing industry, I can tell you that every roof that is at least 2-3 years old requires some maintenance every year. Roofs need cleaning off each year to remove debris, cans, etc. that will end up in drains, clogging them up.

Simple roofs usually require pipe boot replacement after just a few years due to the poor quality of the material. Although some states require pipe jacks be made out of lead, Oklahoma does not. Lead will last longer than the roof will.

The most important step to protecting your roof is Spring and Fall inspections. The fee for this is usually minimal.

With preventive maintenance being so important you would think roofing companies would have a repair/maintenance division, but few do. Most only want to install new roofs.

After visiting with a customer recently and telling him of the importance of maintaining his roof instead of always installing a new roof, I explained, “If you had a leak under your sink and a plumber came over and said, ‘Well, it’s sure leaking—we’ll have to replace the plumbing in the whole house.’” The customer chuckled and said, “Of course not.” However, many roofers convince homeowners they need a new roof when they really only need a little repair and maintenance.

Many commercial flat roofs can be maintained by applying coatings, if done within 3 to 5 years. This process can extend the life, in some cases, indefinitely, as well as reflect heat and UV radiation.

The most important thing to remember about your roof is, don’t forget about it and get a qualified roofing professional to Inspect, Inspect, Inspect…

OKC Homeowners: Is your roof ready for winter?

Your Central Oklahoma home’s roof is the first line of defense against rain, snow, cold air and harsh weather. To keep it in top shape, experts recommend performing a roof inspection twice a year.

Look for missing shingles or deteriorated flashing (the metal that seals bends and joints on skylights, chimneys, etc.). More than 90 percent of roof damage occurs in these two areas and catching it early can be key to preventing bigger problems. Try these additional tips:

When To Inspect

Check your roof in spring, and then again in the fall or winter, before the worst weather seasons set in.

What To Look For

• Examine the roof edge for wind damage or damage caused by driving rain and ice dams. The dams occur when water freezes and backs up under the roofing system.

• Inspect your roof for signs of mold, algae and mildew growth. Signs include dark spots and discoloration on the shingles.

Roof Maintenance

Leaves, sticks and other debris can cause water to back up and flow under a roof, so be sure to clean out your gutters and roof drains regularly. Also be sure to check that all gutters are securely fastened to the house and that downspouts are pointing away from your home.

If You Spot Damage

If your inspection reveals roof damage, be sure to work with professional roof contractors who are bonded, insured and use quality materials. They can keep you from having to spend money on costly future repairs and prolong the life of your roof.

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction is fully bonded and insured, offering free estimates for home and business owners in the Metro Oklahoma City and surrounding area. With over 35 years experience as third-generation roofing professionals, Arrowstar is more than capable of identifying key roof and structural problems that it can address through budget-friendly repair, maintenance and re-roofing options.

Inspecting your roof twice a year can protect your home from serious Oklahoma weather damage. If you’re not confident—or unable—to inspect your roof personally, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction also offers annual maintenance contracts. According to your needs, Arrowstar will come out yearly, biannually or quarterly to inspect your roof for damage. In addition to providing you with a detailed written report of your roof’s condition, we’ll also clear your roof and gutters of all debris and perform minor repairs as part of your maintenance contract… informing you if more serious work is potentially needed.

For a free estimate, or more information on Arrowstar’s annual maintenance contracts, log on to www.arrowstarroofing.com or call us today at (405) 365-6577.