Kolter Homeowner Guide

Roof The roof on your home protects it from the elements, including hail, rain, snow, sun, wind and extreme weather, which all take their toll on the materials that comprise the roof. It’s a good idea to inspect your roof twice a year for damage, and anytime you have reason to believe it could be damaged. An examination in the spring is especially important, since it allows you to find any damage that occurred during the winter. Care and maintenance You can extend your roof’s useful life by conducting regular, but simple, maintenance. Inspecting the roof Use a ladder and, unless necessary, avoid stepping on the roof. If you must walk on the roof, take care to avoid damaging the flashing or the roof surface itself.

Tree branches hanging over the roof. Branches may scratch the shingles or could fall on your roof and damage it. Leaves hold moisture so they can cause rotting if they’re left sitting on the roof.

Roof vents that are clogged.

Flashing that’s damaged. Replace immediately.

Crack and leaks in valley areas of the roof.

Debris.

Attic leaks on rainy days. Pinpoint the leak’s source.

Seals at the corners and scuppers of a flat roof that are damaged. Reseal them with tar as necessary.

CAUTION: Take care when installing a radio or TV antenna. If the job causes leaks in your roof, which is a possibility if done carelessly, the damages likely won’t be covered under warranty.

Check for the following on your roof and remove, repair, or replace as necessary:

SERVICE TIP: Call a roofer if you discover a leak in your roof. Having the problem fixed early — before the material has dried — will result in a less costly job.

Shingles or tiles that are damaged, loose, or missing.

Shingles that are blistered, buckled, or curled.

SERVICE TIP: Hire a roofer to inspect your roof every three years.

Supports for satellite dishes and TV antennas that are damaged.

Homeowners association If your home is part of a homeowners

Shingle granules in the gutters. The granules protect the shingles from the sun and add weight but they may come lose and congregate in the gutters.

association, check with it regarding exterior maintenance. You should be familiar with what you can and cannot do and what maintenance items the association is responsible.

59