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Lawrence Englehart, RHI

How can I know when my roof needs repair or replacement?

Roof Shingles

There are a few things to watch for when assessing whether repairs need to be made:

  • Broken and Cracked Shingles - Too many broken and cracked shingles will compromise your roof’s integrity. These should be repaired to ensure proper protection.
  • Wide Gaps - When roofing materials age, they will shrink. This can lessen the protective covering of the roof and allow moisture to seep into the attic. Gaps should be about 3/8” wide. When they become ¾” or more, it is time for repairs.
  • Shingle Curling - Curling at the edges of the shingles is a common sign that they are aging. This can sometimes be observed from the ground and is an indication that your roof needs attention.
  • Mildew and Algae - Shady roofs can have fungus and algae grow on them. This type of growth can be limited by trimming trees to allow sunlight to reach the surface.
  • Age of the Roof - Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material, will last about 20 years. If your roof is approaching its suggested lifetime, consider having a professional take a look.

If you are unsure about the condition of your roof, a Global Property Inspections professional can inspect it and give you a proper assessment.

Refresh Your Deck

Maintenance Matters

Deck

A newly refinished wood deck can go between two to four years (depending on your climate and how much sun it's exposed to) before it needs refreshing.

  • Replace cracked or damaged boards.
  • Trim foliage that may be in the way.
  • Clean the deck by wetting the wood with water from a hose or power-washer. Mix the deck cleaner according to the directions and apply it to the wet wood with a pump sprayer.
  • Power-wash dirt and mildew from the wood using long, overlapping strokes.
  • To kill mildew, pump-spray a diluted solution of nonchlorine bleach on the wet wood. Wait 10 to 20 minutes and rinse thoroughly with water.
  • Once the deck is dry (wait at least three days), apply the finish. Work from the top down and stain the railings and balusters first with a foam applicator. Use a pump-sprayer to apply the finish to the decking by using long, even, slightly overlapping strokes across the length of the boards.
  • After spraying four or five boards, smooth out the finish with a foam applicator pad. Let the finish dry for two days before walking on it.

For more information, go to http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,602946,00.html.