Buyer beware: Bargain roofers could cost you in long run
AN INVESTMENT IN PROTECTING YOUR HOME INCLUDES REGULAR ROOF INSPECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE
There’s no getting around it : roofs don’t have the sex appeal of, say, a new patio or kitchen.
However, they are a far more important investment in terms of protecting everything inside your home. And as such, two vital points that are frequently overlooked must be considered. First, you can’t sacrifice quality of construction just to save money: you’ll wind up spending much more down the road when the roof you thought was a bargain begins to leak.
Second is that even the best roof, such as those constructed by Absolute Roof Solutions, must be maintained.
Just like an automobile, a roof’s performance depends on how well it’s cared for, and our west coast climate can cause all sorts of issues over time. Leaks are the most obvious problem, and moss — a common sight throughout B.C. — can eat through your shingles and into your roof deck, resulting in wood rot. And when the wood rots, moisture gets into your house and creates an environment that encourages mould growth.
The good news is that even if you’re not a handyman, there are simple steps you can take to keep your roof in good shape. “After a period of heavy rains, go into your attic or crawlspace to check for leaks or water damage, with special attention paid to flashing around chimneys and vents, because those are the areas where leaks usually develop,” says Doug Kerr, president and founder of Absolute Roof Solutions.
Cleaning your rain gutters and downspouts regularly is also a good habit to get into. “Otherwise, plugged gutters cause water backup that could infiltrate the roof,” says Kerr. While up there you can also check for roof granules in the gutters. If there’s a lot of them, it may indicate erosion of asphalt shingles.
As for getting rid of moss, ecofriendly sprays are available. “But only apply them from a ladder or from the vantage point of your deck,” says Kerr. “Avoid climbing onto the roof itself: leave that risk to professionals who are properly trained and have safety gear.”
A host of issues may develop in a roofing system over time that the average homeowner won’t be able to detect. That’s why, just as they understand the importance of having their automobile periodically inspected, they should retain the services of a qualified roofing inspector. “You should have your roof inspected every two years, and make sure it’s properly maintained,” says Absolute sales manager Justin Doyle. “It’s a small investment to make and will give you peace of mind going forward.”
One of the many benefits of dealing with a company like Absolute Roof Solutions is that it’s a one-stop shop for all roofing issues. “In addition to installing roofs, we have a large department that can help our customers with everything from maintenance to inspections, as well as repair,” says Kerr. “We’ve been in business for more than 20 years and have dealt with just about every problem that can occur. So whatever your concern, call the professionals.”