Charleston’s roofs endure a lot of damage. Like unwelcome dinner guests, hurricanes swing. Every shingle lets humidity slip under it. There never is a boring time up there; add in the occasional flock of raucous seagulls landing as if they own the place. You can get the best Charleston roof maintenance in this sites.
Check your shingles first, then items. Step outside and act like a detective following a lot of rain or severe wind. Scan for chipped, missing, or curling bits. Are you without binoculars? The camera zoom of your phone is just passable. Your shingles are shouting for rescue if you find grains gathering in your gutters.
Though it looks charming in garden publications, moss represents slow calamity above. Those green tufts degrade your roof over time by acting like a sponge absorbing water. Here in Charleston, moisture almost gives every house moss. While a delicate brush works, avoid overdoing it. Scrubbing excessively is like trying to fight an insect with a sledgehammer. A mild biodegradable cleaner can work miracles for big patches; stay away from anything too strong.
Speaking of gutters—you cannot overlook those. Clogged gutters eats at your fascia and cause rain puddles around the edge. The oak trees in Charleston seem to drop leaves exactly to annoy homeowners. Twice a year, more if you live under significant tree cover, run your gloved hand through the troughs. For cleaning up filth, a basic garden hose does. You will find that procrastinating will backfire. Trust me.
Though it’s important, flashing doesn’t get the respect it merits. Your last line of protection against leaks, particularly in our infamous summer downpours, those narrow strips surrounding vents and chimneys. Look for rust, cracks, or areas where it has been torn away. Over a season, even a dime-sized opening can welcome gallons.
In this climate, sealant ages fast. The sun in this place is relentless. Every spring, look at caulking around vents and skylights. It should feel more like rubbery than flaky. There are reasonably priced tubes available in your neighborhood hardware store.
Inspection should not make you a mountain climber. Most issues are clear from the ground or a strong ladder. Should heights not appeal to you, local roofers can provide a professional’s viewpoint once a year.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” is a common proverb. Not better than a Southern roof right now. Small leaks develop faster than you might think into ceiling stains, damaged insulation, and mold. Three months later, one neighbor needed a completely new ceiling after ignoring a little drop. Before they become wallet-draining nightmares, grit your teeth and take care of minor tasks.
Quite unexpectedly, birds are frequent offenders. Love nesting in gutters and under eaves are gulls and pigeons. Their droppings are, well, acidic; their nests choke drainage. Shoo them away anytime you find them settling in. Lightweight bird spikes can help if the issue gets out of hand; you may have to explain your “spikey decor” to guests.
Remember attic ventilation. Our sweltering days need strong upward circulation up there. You run the danger of moisture wreaking havoc on roof decking otherwise. Make sure vents are clear, not obstructed by, heaven forbid, abandoned squirrel condos or stored Christmas decorations.
In Charleston, paying attentive attention to your roof is not only common sense but also a rite of passage. Finish those little chores, keep vigilant following storms, and your roof will be grateful. Well, that is if roofs could communicate.