A 10-Point Roof and Gutter Inspection Checklist

Maintaining a healthy roof and gutter system is an important step in protecting your home from weather-related damage. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and avoiding more extensive and costly problems down the line. Let’s walk through the steps a homeowner can take to conduct a thorough inspection of their roof and gutters:

1. Safety First: Before you begin any inspection, prioritize safety. Use a sturdy ladder that's properly positioned on level ground, and always have someone else there to assist you. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction and consider using safety harnesses for added security, especially if your roof is steep or high.

2. Exterior Inspection: Start by examining the roof from the ground. Look for any signs of damage such as missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Check for areas where the roof may be sagging, as this could indicate structural issues. Binoculars can be handy for a closer look at hard-to-reach areas.

3. Roof Surface: If it's safe to do so, carefully climb onto the roof to conduct a more detailed inspection. Walk the entire surface, checking for any loose or damaged shingles, as well as signs of wear and tear. Pay attention to areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these are common trouble spots.

4. Flashing and Seals: Inspect the flashing around roof penetrations such as chimneys and vents. Look for any signs of deterioration or gaps where water could penetrate. Check the seals around these areas and reapply caulk if necessary to maintain a watertight barrier.

5. Gutters and Downspouts: Now have a look at the gutters and downspouts. Remove any debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt that may have accumulated, as clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in the winter. Ensure that the gutters are securely attached to the fascia board and that downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.

6. Gutter Alignment: Check the alignment of the gutters to ensure they're sloping slightly towards the downspouts for proper drainage. Use a level to confirm the slope and adjust hangers as needed to maintain the correct angle.

7. Fascia and Soffits: Inspect the fascia boards and soffits for signs of water damage, rot, or insect infestation. Pay attention to any discoloration, peeling paint, or soft spots, as these could indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

8. Attic Inspection: If accessible, venture into the attic to inspect the underside of the roof deck. Look for signs of water stains, mold, or mildew, which could indicate a leaky roof. Ensure that attic vents are clear of obstruction to allow for proper ventilation.

9. Documentation: Take photographs of any damage or areas of concern as you conduct your inspection. This documentation can be useful for reference and communication with roofing professionals if repairs are needed.

10. Professional Evaluation: While DIY inspections are valuable, it's also wise to have your roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor once a year. They have the expertise and experience to identify hidden issues and provide recommendations for maintenance or repairs.

By following these steps, homeowners can get more familiar with roof and gutter maintenance, preserving the integrity of their home and avoiding costly repairs. Remember, regular inspections are key to keeping your roof and gutters in optimal condition and protecting your investment for years to come.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Keeping Your Basement Dry in Winter

During times of heavy snowfall and standing snow, homeowners often find themselves facing the challenge of keeping their basements dry. Snow, with its tendency to melt and seep into the ground, can pose a significant threat to the lower levels of a house. So how can you maintain a dry basement during the winter months, ensuring a comfortable and moisture-free living space? Here are six tips.

Exterior Maintenance:

The first line of defense against a damp basement is proper exterior maintenance. Begin by inspecting your home's foundation for cracks and gaps that may allow water infiltration. Seal any visible cracks with a waterproof sealant to prevent melted snow from finding its way into your basement. Additionally, make sure that the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation, directing water away rather than towards it.

Snow Removal:

Efficient snow removal is crucial in preventing water from seeping into your basement. Regularly clear snow away from the foundation and window wells to minimize the risk of water accumulation. This proactive approach helps maintain a dry basement by preventing the formation of ice dams, which can trap melted snow and lead to leaks.

Gutter Maintenance:

Clean and well-functioning gutters are essential in diverting water away from your home. Ensure that gutters are free of debris and ice dams, allowing melted snow to flow freely. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent clogs and minimize the need for frequent maintenance. Downspouts should extend several feet away from the foundation to direct water away from the house.

Interior Waterproofing:

Investing in interior waterproofing measures can provide an additional layer of protection against basement moisture. Apply waterproof paint or sealant to the interior walls and floors to create a barrier that prevents water from penetrating. In areas prone to high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier to maintain optimal moisture levels.

Insulation:

Proper insulation is not only beneficial for energy efficiency but also plays a key role in keeping your basement dry. Insulate walls and pipes to prevent condensation and freezing, which can lead to leaks and water damage. A well-insulated basement is better equipped to withstand temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues.

Sump Pump Maintenance:

If your basement is equipped with a sump pump, ensure it is in good working condition. Regularly test the pump and clean the sump pit to prevent clogs. In the event of heavy snowfall and potential flooding, a functional sump pump can efficiently remove excess water and protect your basement from damage.

By implementing these proactive measures, homeowners can safeguard their basements against the challenges posed by winter snow. Take the time to assess your home's vulnerabilities and invest in prevention to enjoy future worry-free winter seasons without the threat of a damp basement.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

What to Know About Ice Dams

This winter has been fairly mild but the season is still in full swing and it won’t be long until we get another storm to remind us that we live in New England. Before that happens, I always like to talk about the dangers of ice dams and the reason why so many homes in our area get damaged by them. 

An ice dam is a solid mass that forms when heavy snow blankets the roof, creating an extra layer of unwanted insulation. As warm air rises from your house and up through your attic, it causes the snow to melt and the water to slide down into the gutters. This would typically be just fine, but because so many homes in our area aren’t properly insulated, the melting ice will often make contact with the cold eaves of the roof and freeze again instead of draining off through the gutters. This forms a large ice mass at the gutter line, which will grow if not taken care of.

Solid ice is heavy and can easily pull gutters loose. The dam can even get strong enough to lift up your roof shingles, creating gaps that let the water through and into the attic. This is when people start to see leaks in their ceilings and walls. 

The only way to prevent ice dams from forming is to have your home properly insulated and ventilated. More than 75% of homes in our area are under-insulated which causes the heat from your home to shoot right through the roof. Because insulation and ventilation weren’t regulated when most of the homes were built in this area, a lot of us have houses that are better suited for Florida winters than our cold Connecticut climate. 

Having appropriate insulation and ventilation will not only keep your home free from ice dams but will also keep you much more comfortable in both the winter and the summer. You’ll feel the difference immediately, and you’ll see the benefit in your energy bills too. A house that can breathe and can properly regulate its own temperature will also be less like to accumulate mold and mildew which is not only damaging to your house but also to your health. It’s a simple solution to keep your family, your home, and your wallet healthy. 

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.