The roof is a major component of any home. The roof protects the rest of the house from the elements as well as the people living inside. A roof can last for 20 to 30 years or more if the homeowner is proactive and takes care of this area of the home. There are several factors that can contribute to the deterioration of a roof such as water and pests. By properly caring for your roofing, you can extend its life and protect against other building damage.
Regular Eaves Through Cleaning
An essential part of maintaining the roof is regular gutter cleaning. Leaves and sticks that fall on the roof can stop the flow of water through the gutters of your home. The pathway needs to remain clear so that water can drain as it should. Water needs to be able to reach the downspout so it can run off the roof. Take time in the fall to clean out the troughs so that water can move properly. This is important to do before winter as ice and snow can cause water damage when it melts if there is not proper runoff system in place.
Water that sits on your roof can soften the materials of the roofing. Wood and shingles will then become fragile and can become damaged. Once the roof is damaged and softened, it becomes a prime target for such creatures as raccoons, birds and squirrels.
While cleaning the roof of your home and troughs, be sure to check areas of the roof such as soffits or venting. Raccoons and squirrels can easily gain entry into the home via these areas of the roof. Even the chimney is a prime spot for such creatures to move into your house. Repair any damage you might see or even add galvanized steel grating to these areas of the home so that the pesky creatures are not able to enter the attic.
Check Your Attic Regularly
It is important to check the attic regularly to see if pest control is needed. From the roof and other areas of the home, pests can gain entry and take up residence in the attic space. When this happens, you are susceptible to damage in the home as well as at risk for disease depending on the creature in the home. Check your attic regularly to see if you find anything unusual or signs of a creature infestation. Larger animals like raccoons and squirrels often use attics as their home. Bats, birds, and mice are also culprits that move into homes for shelter as well as comfort.
If you do find that creatures are using your home as their own, contact wildlife control. Experts in wildlife management will be able to remove the pests and restore your home to its former state. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we specialize in the removal of all types of creatures, both large and small. Using humane removal methods, we work hard to see your home free of creatures as quickly as possible. Contact our office immediately when you find that your home has been invaded!