The right roof covering can make a significant difference in the appearance of your home. It can also increase resale value, so it is important to choose wisely. The type of roofing material you choose will impact the aesthetics of your property, the durability of your home and how much energy it can absorb. There are many options, including asphalt shingles and tile. Some materials are more expensive than others and require professional installation. They are also a lot heavier, so you should ensure your home can support them before choosing one.
Your roof is about 40% of the exterior of your home and accounts for a large percentage of its "curb appeal". This means it's important to pick a color and style that complements the rest of the house, enhances your property's overall look, and draws the eye towards unique features like gables, dormers, and skylights. It's also important to consider the neighborhood you live in and any rules or guidelines that may apply. For example, if your house is located in a historic district or a particular type of neighborhood, you will want to stick with the aesthetics that are popular and in keeping with those standards.
Before you start, inspect your gutter system for damage and clogs, better if you will invest in hiring a professional gutter cleaning such as Gutter Cleaning Bend OR to do the inspection. If the gutters are damaged or clogged, water can leak under the roof and into the foundation of your home. This can cause extensive damage and expensive repairs to your home's structure.
To protect against this, it's best to clean your gutters at least twice a year and more frequently if you have overhanging trees. Cleaning gutters regularly will help prevent clogs and damage to the exterior of your home, especially in areas that experience heavy rains.
A good gutter cleaning will also help lower the likelihood of staining and mold. Debris in your gutter can accelerate these problems and allow water to seep into your landscaping, siding, windows, or basement. After you've cleaned your gutters, use a garden hose to flush any debris out of the gutters and downspouts. This is also an opportunity to check that your downspouts are working properly and aren't clogged. You can also use a garden hose to spray the interior of your gutters, ensuring that there is no standing water inside. This can prevent the buildup of moss and mildew.
Once you've inspected the entire gutter system, begin by cleaning the section nearest the downspout opening. This is the first part of your system that will get a thorough cleaning. Using the garden hose or a wet/dry vacuum, spray the section from end to end, removing any accumulated dirt or grime as you go along.
Next, work your way down the length of the gutter to remove any remaining debris. You may need to use a ladder to reach each section. It's a good idea to wear rubber-soled shoes so you won't slip or trip while climbing the ladder.
You'll need to climb up and down the ladder several times to complete this task, so it's a good idea to wear ladder stabilizers and leg levelers. It's also a good idea to use a tarp to shield the ladder from wind and weather while you're on the roof.
