Depending on their condition, old flashings can be reused when a roof is re-shingled. Your roofing contractor will be able to determine what is the best optionon whether to reuse or replace. This video is from a recent home inspection where the soil stack and furnace flue have been properly flashed.
Rick Erickson, Home Inspector, HomePro Home Inspections. Rochester MN, Southeastern, MN. 507-202-8942. http://www.homepro-inspection.com
On this home inspection the sellers had disclosed that they had had a leak the previous winter and that the problem had been fixed by removing an ice dam and sealing at the roof to wall intersection. Upon further investigation it is possible that the leak has come from higher up on the roof. I recommend that the owner contact their local Rochester MN roofing contractor to remedy the problem.
Rick Erickson, Home Inspector, HomePro Home Inspections. Rochester MN, Southeastern, MN. 507-202-8942. http://www.homepro-inspection.com
If your home has light colored shingles, you may notice black streaking, especially on the north facing side. In areas where there is less sunlight, you will tend to have more dampness. With dampness comes mildew and fungus growth.
The best way to prevent mildew and fungus growth is to provide as much ventilation and sunlight as possible. Of course, this is easier said than done in some cases. Try to keep branches trimmed back on trees so that there is as much sunlight on the roof as possible.
There is no quick fix to mildew and fungus short of replacing the roof. I highly recommend that you hire a professional for cleaning your roof. Another option is to check with your local Rochester, or Southeastern MN building supply or hardware store for products that are designed to remove mildew. Make sure you follow all safety and health precautions when using any chemicals to treat a roof. Mildew removal products may affect paint, gutters, and plants, so again, make sure you follow all safety and application instructions.
Another product, which I have installed on my roof, is called Shingle Shield. This product consists of zinc strips that are placed under the edge of the shingles near the peak of the roof. Rain reacts with the zinc to create a chemical that will prevent the growth of mildew and fungus on your roof. Ever notice how white shingles remain white below metal roof flashings? Same concept with the zinc strips. Again, you should consult a professional roofer for installation of this product. It must be noted, that the zinc strips may not remove existing mildew and fungus. You may have to have your roof treated to remove existing mildew and fungus prior to installing the zinc strips.
If you are planning on replacing the roof on your home, you can also look into shingles that have mildew resistant chemicals built right into them. Or have the zinc strips installed with the new roof.
Rick Erickson, Home Inspector, HomePro Home Inspections. Rochester MN, Southeastern, MN. 507-202-8942. http://www.homepro-inspection.com
Deteriorated roofing materials
When reviewing the results of a home inspection, I usually discuss with my clients the importance of yearly roof maintenance. It’s better to proactively identify and deal with potential problems before they become widespread. In many cases, if a problem is identified early and properly repaired, the extent and cost of the repairs will be significantly less than if problems were unattended.
I recommend that homeowners have their roofing systems inspected every year or two depending on the conditions around the home. You can perform a preventative maintenance inspection on you own roof if you have the knowledge, ability, and follow proper safety procedures. If you aren’t comfortably doing your own preventative maintenance inspection or being on the roof, hire a professional roofing contractor.
A typical preventative maintenance roofing inspection usually consists of a thorough visual inspection of the roofing system and intersecting wall surfaces, as well as all protrusions, (vents, soil stack, chimney, skylight, etc.) and gutters. It’s a good idea to take digital pictures for comparisons of any changing conditions. Make sure you remove any debris and or other materials that are not part of the roof. If you live in a wooded area, there may be branches of accumulated leaves that need removing.
If there are any issues that need repair, they should be dealt wit in a timely manner to prevent any further system deterioration. Repairs that are beyond what would be considered normal maintenance should be conducted by a licensed roofing contractor.
Keeping up on the maintenance and condition of your roofing system will help it to last, and help you to plan for long term replacement costs.
Rick Erickson, Home Inspector, HomePro Home Inspections. Rochester MN, Southeastern, MN. 507-202-8942. http://www.homepro-inspection.com
Great home inspection experience for a first time homebuyer. Thanks Dallas!
Lauren M. Rochester, MN
It was very easy to contact Rick and make a convenient appointment. He was very thorough, professional and efficient. We wanted a home inspection prior to putting our home on the market. He reviewed his findings with us, his report and thoroughly explained everything at the conclusion of the inspection. His report is very easy to understand and know what things need attention versus just notations. We would highly recommend Home Pro Home Inspections.
Brian & Susan U. Rochester, MN
This is our second home purchase, and our Realtor recommended Rick for our home inspection. He was very knowledgable whenever we asked him questions regarding the home. He gave us reassurance in our new home decision and I would recommend him to others.
Andrea P, Rochester, MN