Schuylkill county sees an average of 125 days of precipitation every year.
Sometimes, we take for granted the security of a solid roof over our heads. For thousands of Pennsylvania homeowners, aging and damaged roofs mean worry every time the clouds roll in.
But replacing your roof? It’s hard to know where to start…or when. Does your roof just “look” old? Missing a few shingles and showing color fade here and there? Or is it a problem that needs to be addressed right now?
Our wet weather here causes damage to more than just your roof. Wear in gutters can cause foundation damage and basement flooding. Hail and ice can cause cracked siding and lead to interior moisture problems.
It’s almost as if nature is working against you as a homeowner!
What you didn’t have to worry when looking at the weather forecast? What if you could just look out the window and relax to the calming white noise?
A positive, proactive approach to handling our unique weather here in Pennsylvania can give you that peace of mind. Ready to feel secure in your home’s rain protection?
Read on and discover three quick checks you can make today to enjoy years of rainy days to come.
#1: How Strong Is Your Foundation?
Do you remember the church parable from Matthew about the wise man who built his house on rock instead of sand? The word “foundation” reaches back into ancient times as a metaphor for this one basic truth:
In order for something to last- it needs a strong base.
Your foundation is the most important part of your house. But it’s also the quietest.
What do I mean?
Well, if your roof leaks, you notice quickly and work fast to get it fixed. Your foundation is different. The problems are less noticeable and, unless you’re looking, you might not notice until it’s too late.
But the best way to protect your home isn’t to fix problems when they arise but before they happen. Your foundation is crucial to the safety of your home and faulty foundation can mean:
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- Water leaks and damage to your home’s interior
- Mold and mildew issues
- Damage to the structural integrity of your home
Ever tried to sell a home with a bad foundation? Or put in an offer on a house to discover foundation problems in inspection? Chances are the value of that home was worth 20-70% less than comparative properties.
Why?
Because once a foundation is truly damaged, it’s near impossible to fix. This is why it’s critical to catch the small signs and get a professional to address them as soon as possible.
So, how do you identify foundational damage?
Simple.
Walk around your home and look for cracks. It’s normal to have some cracks, but if they’re larger than ⅛ an inch- take note.
Substantial cracks should be shown to a professional immediately. A trusted contractor will be able to tell you if the cracks are from natural settling, or a sign of an ongoing water problem.
Want to learn more about water damage and how to avoid it? You can read more about it here!
#2. Vinyl Siding That Arms Your Home From Every Season
Your home’s siding is like a suit of armor. It has to be strong in order to protect it. Cracks, dents, and breaks mean weak spots for water- leading to big interior remodeling problems if left unchecked.
The good news is that siding damage is easy to spot- just check for dents and cracks in vinyl (or soft spots if you have wood clad).
One of the reasons we install Ply Gem is because of the rain here in Pennsylvania. It’s tornado-tough strength means superior wind and rain resistance for decades. It can withstand winds as high as 190 mph!
A great product paired with professional installation means peace of mind for decades to come. Is your siding in need of a refresh? Call us! We’d love to help!
#3. How To Extend The Life Of Your Roof
The average asphalt roof lasts 15-30 years.
That’s a wide range! Why?
Heavy rainfall can take years off of your roof’s lifespan!
You can’t control the rain but you can take steps to make sure your roof is getting the support it needs to last. How? Perform these regular home maintenance checks to protect your roof against the elements:
- Clean your gutters! Clogged or slow draining gutters don’t just hurt your home’s foundation- when water pools or backs-up, it puts stress on your roof. Check and clean your gutters to avoid water buildup on your roof.Better yet? Ask us about installing gutter guards for a low-maintenance way to keep your roof draining at maximum efficiency.
- Trim overhanging branches. Cutting tree branches decreases debris build up. When debris sits on your roof or in your gutters, algae, mold, and the water itself can soften the material and cause early erosion.
- Check for and repair shingle damage. Look for cracks and decay in the shingles. It’s best to take care of shingle problems early before they can begin to damage your interior.
Need a roof replacement that will last for decades in the rain? Consider protecting your home with metal.
Metal roofing on residential buildings is rising in popularity- and for good reasons! Metal has a lifespan of up to 70 years and is one of the most durable roofing materials available.
Worried about the sound of rain? Modern metal is manufactured specifically to reduce noise and make those storms as serene as possible.
Stress-Free Rainy Days
The next time it rains, you can look out the window and know your house will protect you through the storm.
Why? Because you’ve checked the strength of your foundation, kept a close eye on your exterior, and know your roof is solid. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
In your inspection, did you discover cracks, wear, or damage that you think needs replaced? Even if you aren’t sure, give us a call. We’ll give you an honest assessment of the health of your home- and a plan to make any repairs.
My husband Vern and his team have been keeping homes safe in Schuylkill County for the last 30 years!
Give him a call at 570-345-0406 to schedule your project estimate!
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