Roofing, siding, and gutters are essential components that protect your home’s interiors against the elements and contribute to its curb appeal.
The roof is installed on the top of the house, keeping out wind, rain, snow, sleet, and the sun’s searing rays. It also provides insulation to your home. Siding has a similar function but is installed on the exterior walls. Meanwhile, gutters primarily protect your home from water intrusion and damage. They divert rainwater from the roof through a downspout and away from your home’s foundation.
Routine maintenance of roofing, siding, gutters, and other components is crucial but so are timely repairs. Here’s what you need to know.
Roofing, Siding, & Gutter Repairs
Although your roofing, siding, and gutters can last for several years, they eventually become damaged and require fixing or replacing.
What Happens During Repairs?
At the first sign of problems, it’s important to call a trusted contractor immediately. Addressing issues early on prevents them from developing into bigger, costlier repairs. Sometimes, full replacement is necessary when the damage to one of the components is widespread.
During a roof repair, the roofer will check for missing, broken, or loose parts, cracked flashing, leaks, and structural sagging. If they notice problems other than the one they’re working on, they will suggest having these fixed as a preventive measure.
Similar to roofs, siding is susceptible to damage from the elements. Siding repairs often involve replacing loose or damaged panels.
Gutter repair services are sometimes extensive. A contractor may suggest replacing sagging, leaking, heavily dented, or badly damaged gutters. They may perform re-pitching and cleaning of gutters for better performance. Besides the gutter sections, downspouts may also require readjustment, extensions or splash blocks, or a full replacement.
Which Should You Repair First?
It’s possible to repair the roof without causing damage to any other home structures. However, an extensive roof repair or replacement might require you to remove the gutters and siding to prevent them from becoming damaged.
Can You Fix Gutters Before the Roof?
Yes, you can still perform gutter repairs before addressing the roof, and in some cases, you might need to. If your gutters are already pulling away or heavily damaged, putting off repairs often leads to bigger headaches, like a weakened foundation from water damage.
Maintaining Your Exteriors
Repairs aren’t the only time you should pay attention to your roofing, siding, and gutters. Routine upkeep is just as important in prolonging the lifespan of each component.
Roof Maintenance
Have your roof inspected for wear and tear every year or after a severe weather disturbance. Clean the surface periodically to remove debris, such as dirt, mold, twigs, leaves, or fallen branches from overhanging trees.
If the pitch is steep, you run a high risk of falling off the roof while cleaning it. It’s best to leave the job to a professional who will come prepared with the right equipment and training. A professional can also fix loose, damaged, or missing components to prevent leaks.
Gutter Maintenance
Like your roof, the gutters also require frequent cleaning as they often get clogged with debris from trees. Moreover, an obstructed gutter prevents rainwater from flowing smoothly away from the roof. Water could then flow over the side of the gutter and damage your exterior walls.
Clear out the debris by hand, then flush the gutters with water to remove whatever remains. Consider installing gutter guards or covers to keep out leaves, twigs, critters, and trash.
Siding Maintenance
Give your siding a good wash at least once a year. Different siding materials require specific cleaning procedures. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations before proceeding.
Hiring a Roofing, Siding, & Gutters Contractor
Follow the tips below when looking for the right contractor.
Look at Their Credentials
Check the contractor’s reviews and ratings online. Good feedback from past clients could indicate quality service.
It’s also vital to check that your contractor is licensed, bonded, and fully insured. That way, you know they are qualified to do the job per local government requirements, and they can cover damages that might occur on the job.
Ask about a Warranty
There are two types of warranties: manufacturer and labor. A manufacturer’s warranty covers the products used for defects. Meanwhile, a labor warranty guarantees the contractor’s workmanship—their work should have no problems during a specified period. If an issue arises within the timeframe, they will fix it for free.
Review the Quote
Solicit quotes from at least three companies for comparison. Go through the estimates and look at the breakdown, especially the materials to be used. Ask about the brand to see if it’s of high quality. Some estimates are lower because the contractor uses sub-par materials that undermine the structural integrity of your home.
When you need reliable and prompt roofing, siding, gutter, and other home repair services, contact DMG Exteriors to get a free quote today.
