The importance of yearly roof inspections can not be overlooked. Years ago, a major oil filter company ran ads encouraging auto driver to change their oil and filters regularly. An experienced mechanic was the main character of the commercial, and he compared the price of a new filter and oil change to that of rebuilding or replacing an engine that was improperly maintained. As the commercial’s final second’s played, the mechanic would hold up the new filter and say “You can pay me now, or you can pay me later”
When considering the integrity of a Miami roofing system, South Florida homeowners should consider this same idea. From the road, a roof system appears relatively unchanged year after year. However, like dirty oil in a car’s engine, conditions which are invisible to the eye from street level may affect your roof’s ability to protect your home when severe weather blows in off the Atlantic. In the middle of a storm, it’s too late to go up an a roof and look for the source of a leak, or prevent worn shingles from blowing off in the high winds. That’s why Miami Roof Tech recommends an annual roof inspection. The small amount of money you invest in your home by hiring us to physically inspect your roof when the weather is sunny can save thousands of dollars of damage caused by a raging tropical storm.
Some of the typical conditions we find when we examine a roof include:
Cracked flashing and rubber boots around chimneys and roof vent stacks: The hot Miami sun takes a toll on these products, and they break down under the sun’s UV rays. By checking them before the storm season starts, we can often find areas that will allow water to penetrate your roof before any damage is done.
Worn out shingles: shingle products have come a long way from those of yesteryear. Some carry warranties of 40,50 and even lifetime guarantees. However, this does not mean they are impervious to deterioration. Regardless of what shingle that you decide to have installed on your home, it is still very important to periodically check for signs of wear or damage. Just small things such as a cracked or blistered shingle can lead to much larger problems down the road if not dealt with immediately. A quick roof inspection will identify any signs of potential problems and can be remedied very easily and at minimal cost.
Decaying roof decking. Under the roofing material is a plywood roof decking. Over time, especially in humid Florida weather, if the attic of a home is not ventilated properly, the roof decking can begin to decay slowly, unseen from the home’s exterior. Roof decking becomes spongy as it decays. In this state, shingle and roof system fasteners pull out easily. A compromised roof decking should be replaced immediately to protect the home’s entire roof system integrity.