Thursday, May 11, 2017

When it comes to our homes, it’s only natural to focus on what’s in our sight line - the yard, the front door, the windows. However, the biggest need may come from above: your roof.

According to roofing manufacturer GAF, updating or repairing your roof can increase your home’s curb appeal by 40 percent. Whether you’re putting your home on the market or not, addressing any issues with your roof is an important step in protecting your home’s value. GAF offers this list of what you should look for:

- Scan the roof for any sagging or uneven areas. These could be signs that your roof’s framing structure is compromised.

- Next, survey the gutters to ensure they’re not clogged with debris such as leaves, branches, dirt, etc.

- Once you’ve cleaned out the gutters, make sure they’re still securely fastened so that they don’t cause overflow and build-up, or fall off the fascia board.

- Debris can also build up in the valleys of your roof, adding weight and unnecessary stress to the structure. Make sure to clear these areas as well.

- One of the most common causes of a leaky roof is damage to the flashing. Make sure metal flashing is securely and sufficiently in place around roof vents, pipes, skylights, and chimneys.

- Finally, take a close look at your shingles. Carefully inspect the entire roof and look for curling edges, missing granules, missing shingles, etc.

The sooner you address any problems with your roof, the less expensive the repairs will be. Then you can rest assured that both your family and your investment is well protected.

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