Author: Lowri Sanchez

The Basics of Pest Control

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Pests include small mammals (such as mice), crawling insects (such as ants and cockroaches), and flying insects (such as houseflies, fermentation flies, and moths). Parasitic nematodes are also helpful pest control tools.

Research local options to find a pest control company that meets your needs. Look for companies with customer reviews and certifications.

Pests can cause a wide variety of problems. They can damage property or spread disease to people and pets. They can also interfere with the function of facilities such as hospitals, schools, and food processing plants. In most cases, the best way to manage pests is to prevent them from entering buildings in the first place. This can be done by creating sanitary environments through routine cleaning and storage practices. Infestation prevention should also include identifying and sealing entry points.

For example, rodents and other pests often enter homes through open doors and windows, so these should be closed as much as possible. Clutter around the house should be removed, and shrubs and tree limbs should be trimmed away from the house to prevent pests from accessing it. Moisture sources should be addressed, as well. Pests often thrive in damp conditions, so fixing leaks and removing standing water should be a priority.

Other preventive measures include managing waste properly and securing garbage containers. This will help prevent pests from getting into the trash and breeding inside it. Regularly vacuuming and wiping down surfaces will help eliminate food residues that attract cockroaches and other insects. Store foods in sealed containers, and always wash produce before consuming it. Cracks and crevices should be caulked to make it more difficult for pests to gain entry into a home or building.

Preventive measures are not enough to keep some pests out of a building, so they need to be augmented with suppression and/or eradication strategies. Suppression involves reducing the number of pests to below an unacceptable level through targeted applications of physical, biological, or chemical techniques. It may be necessary to spray rooms with pesticides, but only after a careful assessment of the situation and consideration of all alternatives.

Eradication is a rare goal in outdoor pest situations, but it is occasionally attempted for certain problem species such as Mediterranean fruit fly and gypsy moth. In indoor settings, eradication is more common because pests can be controlled more easily than in the open. Pests infesting a hospital, school, or restaurant are not only a nuisance, but can threaten people’s health. Rodents can carry and transmit diseases such as Salmonella, and flies can spread gastrointestinal infections including Shigella and Hepatitis. In addition, the presence of pests can lead to closure of a facility until the problem is managed.

Suppression

Pests can cause serious damage to the environment, agriculture, livestock and homes. Proper management helps control them to prevent harm. There are a number of techniques to control pests, including natural, biological, and chemical controls. Some controls influence the environment and limit populations, others kill them directly or change their ability to reproduce. Some also alter the amount of water, light or heat available. These include physical and mechanical controls, agrochemicals, and cultural practices.

Weather, topography and habitat factors limit the population of many pests by influencing their growth, development, and feeding habits. Predatory birds, fish, mammals and reptiles feed on or parasitize some pest insects, reducing their numbers. Insect-like mites, nematodes and pathogens also suppress some pests by injuring or killing them or by blocking their ability to reproduce.

Agricultural and residential sanitation practices help prevent pest infestations by eliminating their food, water, or shelter. Proper trash disposal and frequent garbage pickup reduces pest harborage. Sanitation practices also prevent the spread of some pests between fields or yards by removing crop residues, and sterilizing equipment and materials before moving to a new area.

Some agrochemicals are designed to kill or prevent the reproduction of specific pests. These include insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. The choice of a chemical depends on the type and severity of the pest problem, the effectiveness of other control measures, and the environmental effects of the different chemicals.

Agrochemicals should be used with care because some have the potential to harm the environment, humans or beneficial organisms. They should be applied only to areas where they are needed, and used in ways that minimize the chance of them transferring to non-target organisms.

Many pests are attracted to bright lights or colors. Traps, barriers and screens can be used to keep them away from crops, homes or structures. Some devices emit pheromones that confuse or repel male pests, lowering their numbers. Juvenile hormones can likewise be used to decrease pest numbers by preventing them from maturing into adults that can produce offspring. Other agrochemicals, such as fungicides and plant growth regulators, are used to improve the quality of fruits, vegetables or flowers.

Eradication

The goal of eradication is rarely achieved in outdoor pest situations, where prevention and suppression are more common. However, eradication can be an important part of pest control in enclosed areas such as dwellings; schools and offices; and health care, food preparation and processing facilities.

Eradication involves destroying the entire population of a pest species to prevent it from reproducing. This may be accomplished through a combination of physical, biological, or chemical means. Physical methods include traps and netting, while biological methods involve the use of natural enemies to disrupt pest populations. Chemical methods typically employ pesticides, which kill the pests through direct or indirect application. These chemicals can be very effective, although they also pose risks to human and environmental health when used improperly.

Regardless of the method employed, a pest problem should be addressed as soon as possible. Many pests carry diseases that can affect humans and animals. Some may even cause damage to property or crops. Pest infestations can be difficult to eradicate because of the persistence and adaptability of some species.

Pests are attracted to moist and sheltered areas, so it’s important to eliminate sources of moisture. In homes, this might mean repairing leaky pipes and sealing cracks and crevices. It’s also a good idea to remove standing water and dead vegetation around the home.

A clean environment is also a deterrent to most pests. Regular vacuuming and sweeping, the removal of clutter, and frequent garbage disposal are all effective ways to keep pests away. The most effective cleaning strategy, however, is to implement a routine that prevents future pest infestations before they occur.

Eradicating pests requires time and effort. While preventative treatments are relatively quick, eradicating existing infestations can take several hours or longer. Eradication should be a comprehensive process, involving both killing existing pests and blocking their entry into the area in question.

Monitoring

Monitoring pest control activities is an essential part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). It helps you determine when action is needed and assess how effective your tactics are. Ideally, you want to treat only for pests that have reached unacceptable levels and have been identified through monitoring.

Monitoring can be done using a variety of traps and other devices that attract or capture specific pests. This includes sticky boards, electronic fly traps, moth pots and pheromone traps. The traps or monitors should be checked on a weekly, monthly or quarterly basis depending on your level of infestation. Each time, the device should be cleaned and rebaited if necessary. A log should be kept to track and report the results of each monitoring session.

When monitoring, it is important to know your crop and its life cycle. This will help you identify and interpret the results of your scouting efforts. You should also be aware of critical crop development stages so that you can concentrate your monitoring at times when the crop is most susceptible to damage. For example, pulse crops may require scouting weekly during the vegetative stage and twice a week from budding onward.

During your inspection, note the number and type of pests you find as well as the amount of damage or other symptoms. Record this information in a pest identification log or similar data collection system. Also, note where you found the pests and their behavior. This will allow you to track the movement of the pests and understand how they are interacting with your crops.

A flashlight is an invaluable tool to carry during inspections because many pests live or seek shelter in dark harborage areas, such as crevices and corners. An extendable mirror is also useful to inspect behind and beneath equipment and furniture. It is recommended that you carry a magnifying glass to help identify the pests and their corresponding frass (excrement) and to confirm the presence of their damage.

Keeping up with regular maintenance and sanitation can prevent pests from becoming a problem in the first place. Routinely cleaning shelves, equipment and drains can reduce the moisture content of your facility, making it less attractive to pests. Screening and caulking can keep pests out of buildings and other structures. Physical exclusion is an important strategy for health care facilities. It involves removing any points of entry, as well as identifying and prioritizing needed repair work to minimize the risk of a pest invasion.

Carpet Cleaners and Why You Need Them

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Carpet Cleaners El Dorado Hills CA eliminate dirt particles and odors that hide under the surface of your floor covering. They also help improve the air quality in your home or business by eliminating allergens like mold, dust mites, and pet dander.

Even stain-resistant carpet needs occasional cleaning to keep it looking great. A professional cleaning service can use more powerful cleaning agents to knock out tough stains without damaging the fibers of your carpet.

When dirt, grime, or food spills remain on the carpet for a long time, they can leave behind sticky residues that attract more and more dust, soil, and other debris. These residues are hard to remove without a thorough cleaning. Hence, the best way to deal with dirt buildup is to avoid allowing it to settle in the first place. This can be done by regularly vacuuming the carpet and using cleaning products that are designed to reduce the stickiness of residues. Moreover, homeowners can purchase a variety of cleaning tools such as microfiber cloths that trap dust particles and brooms with stiff bristles for tackling tougher stains.

In addition to this, regularly cleaning the surface of the floor and furniture in a room can aid in keeping the carpet cluse the removal of loos forme dirt before cleaning prevents it from clinging onto the carpet fibers and reducing its lifespan.

Professional cleaners use high-grade cleaning equipment and methods to get rid of dirt and other contaminants from the carpet. This includes sprinkling a special cleaning powder on the carpet and using a rotating brush machine to allow the powder to penetrate the carpet fibers. Vacuuming before this cleaning method enhances the effectiveness of the procedure. It also ensures that the entire carpet is cleaned and eliminates accumulated dirt that the cleaning process may otherwise leave behind.

A common problem that occurs with rental cleaners is the appearance of streaks on the carpet after cleaning. This is caused by deep-seated dirt that gets drawn up to the carpet fibers during drying. The best solution is to hire a professional cleaner that uses high-quality equipment and detergents that leave the carpet clean without leaving any toxic residue.

To maintain a clean carpet, regular vacuuming and spot cleaning should be done in between deep cleaning sessions. It is also a good idea to rotate furniture to change traffic patterns and consider applying carpet protectors or deodorants. This will minimise the amount of dirt that accumulates in the fibres and will prevent carpets from looking dull or fading in colour.

Stains

When stains are left untreated or treated in the wrong way, they can stick to carpet fibers and attract dirt over time. This is called soiling and can lead to a reoccurring stain or even the appearance of a phantom stain, where the carpet looks clean but the stain reappears over time. The best way to prevent this is to respond to a spill as soon as it occurs. Blotting with a clean cloth and applying a mild cleaning solution can help remove the residue before it has a chance to bond with the fibers.

Knowing what type of stain you are dealing with can also make a difference. Water-based stains can be removed with water and clear dishwashing liquid; however, some stains are more stubborn, especially if they are protein based (blood, vomit). These types of stains require special treatment because they react with enzymes in the carpet.

Oil-based stains, on the other hand, can be very difficult to remove. This is because the oils in the stain cling to other oils, making them more resistant to water. This can cause the stain to be more spread out than it originally was. It is also important to test any cleaning solution on a small area of the carpet to see what kind of reaction it has on the material.

It is not unusual for a cleaner to get a call from a customer who has spots that keep reappearing after the carpet has been cleaned. This is usually due to the wicking process that can happen when a stain is allowed to deeply penetrate the carpet and pad. This can be prevented by identifying potential problem areas with a moisture meter and treating them accordingly.

Another common issue is browning, which happens when the carpet does not dry quickly enough after being wet. This causes the moisture to travel upwards through the fibers, discoloring them as it goes. This can be avoided by using a good drying method and by regularly vacuuming the carpet.

High Traffic Areas

Depending on the amount of foot traffic in a specific area, carpets may need to be cleaned more frequently than others. This is because high traffic areas tend to accumulate dirt and grime faster due to repeated trampling of feet. This can cause the fibers to break down and lose their luster and texture. Using a quality commercial cleaning service for these high-traffic areas can keep them looking clean and new longer.

The first step in keeping carpets looking clean and fresh is to encourage people to remove their shoes before entering a space. This simple habit will prevent a large amount of dirt, dust, and debris from entering the carpet fibers. Vacuuming regularly and promptly is also a key part of maintaining high-traffic carpets. By removing loose dirt from the carpet on a daily basis, it prevents it from becoming further ingrained into the fibers and makes stain removal easier.

Spills should be dealt with immediately, as well. If a spill is allowed to sit, it can become a permanent stain that will be very difficult to remove. A quick and effective solution is to use a mix of white distilled vinegar and water, which can quickly clean most spills without harming the fibers. This solution should be sprayed onto the spot and then blotted, starting from the outside and working toward the center of the stain to avoid spreading it.

For the most ingrained and stubborn stains, it is best to hire professional cleaners. They will have the experience, specialized equipment, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure that even the most heavily stained areas of your carpet can be restored. This will keep them looking clean and fresh longer, while extending their lifespan.

In commercial spaces, regular carpet cleaning helps to comply with health and safety regulations, as well as maintain a clean and healthy environment for employees and visitors. If left unclean, a high-traffic area can be an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and other harmful substances that can make people sick. Using a professional carpet cleaning service is one of the best ways to ensure that these high-traffic areas are kept clean and free of allergens.

Maintenance

Maintaining carpets extends their lifespan, reduces replacement costs and promotes a healthy indoor environment. Keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance removes trapped pollutants, improves indoor air flow, eliminates germs and allergens, and enhances the appearance of high-traffic areas.

Vacuuming regularly helps prevent soiling by removing the majority of particles before they become embedded in the fibers. It is important to vacuum often, especially in high traffic areas and on a scheduled basis. Vacuums with a beater bar or rotating brush are best for removing dirt and debris. Changing the filter and emptying the bag regularly maximizes suction.

Stains are another challenge that carpet cleaners tackle on a daily basis. Trying to treat them yourself can be time consuming and frustrating, but a professional has the experience with so many different stains that they know what works and how to deal with each one effectively.

Dirty carpet can also deteriorate rapidly. Walking on dirty carpet rubs the fibers against each other, wearing them down and causing them to break down faster than normal. A professional carpet cleaner can clean deep down to the base of the fibers, extending their lifespan and preventing premature wear.

Carpet manufacturers recommend a hot water extraction cleaning every 12 to 18 months to preserve their color and texture, and keep the manufacturer’s warranty valid. This type of cleaning removes embedded dirt, pet dander, chemicals, allergens and dry particle soil that vacuuming alone cannot remove.

If your carpet is a significant investment, then you want to protect it. Choosing the right carpet cleaners can save you money in the long run by prolonging the life of your carpet. Taking some time to research the company and read reviews is also beneficial to ensure they have the proper equipment and knowledge to get the job done properly. You may even want to consider hiring a carpet cleaner that uses green cleaning products, as these are less harsh and are better for the environment. You should always check with the manufacturer to make sure the carpet cleaning method will not void your warranty.

Stucco Remediation – Why You Need a Stucco Remediation Contractor

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Stucco is more resilient than other home siding options but still requires proper care to avoid issues like moisture damage. If you notice stains, cracks, or mold, contact a stucco remediation contractor.

Remediation involves replastering the entire wall system to address the underlying issues that cause moisture damage. It’s more involved than a repair, but it offers lasting results. Contact Stucco Remediation Philadelphia now!

Stucco is porous, which means it can allow moisture into the interior walls if there are cracks or other damage. Moisture infiltration leads to mold, mildew, and other unwanted fungi growth that can stain the stucco surface.

Regularly inspecting your stucco exterior for dirt, grime, and other debris will help keep the surface clean and stain-free. If you notice any areas of discoloration, a thorough washing with a pressure washer will typically do the trick. Always be sure to use a sprayer with an extension hose and a nozzle set to “low” pressure. Using too much pressure can damage the stucco and force water into cracks.

Before you start washing, walk around your house’s perimeter to evaluate the stucco’s condition. A close inspection will show you if there are any cracks in the stucco that need to be repaired. This is important because cracks can allow moisture into the wall, which will lead to further problems.

Moisture stains on the stucco surface are common, but there are other signs that could indicate more serious problems. For example, if the paint is peeling, this is usually caused by water penetration and may indicate a moisture problem beneath the surface. Another sign of moisture is a musty odor, which could be an indication that there is mold growing behind the stucco.

In addition to stains, the stucco can also develop a powdery residue called efflorescence due to water exposure. Efflorescence occurs when water-soluble salts migrate to the surface of the stucco and leave a white, powdery residue as they evaporate. This can be especially noticeable in areas where there is a lot of humidity or water exposure.

Using a brush, scrub the affected area with a solution of mild detergent and warm water. If the stains are black, this is probably mildew and should be treated with bleach. If the stains are green, this is likely algae, and can be treated with a combination of bleach and Borax. A combination of this and a regular wash with liquid dish soap will keep the stucco looking great.

Cracks

When hairline cracks appear in the stucco, it’s best to remediate them right away. They may seem insignificant at first, but they’ll eventually become larger and cause even more damage. Moisture that is trapped behind these cracks can lead to black mold and rot. If left untreated, these problems can lead to costly structural repairs or even the loss of your home.

There are a number of causes for the cracking of stucco, including foundation settlement, excessive moisture exposure, and large temperature fluctuations. Foundation settling often occurs in older homes, and it can place stress on the walls. This can cause the stucco to expand and contract, which leads to cracks over time. Excessive moisture exposure can occur from rain or irrigation systems, or it can be caused by poor drainage, which allows water to seep through the wall and into the house. Large temperature fluctuations can also cause the stucco to expand and contract, leading to cracking.

Remediation is usually a more expensive service than repair, so homeowners should only use it when necessary. However, it is important to consider the long-term health of your home and make the best decision for you. Remediation can be used to fix serious issues that are unlikely to be fixed by simple repair, so it’s worth the investment.

The first step in the remediation process is to clean the crack. This is done by using a broom or brush to remove any dirt or debris that has collected. Next, the crack is carefully inspected to assess its size, shape, and depth. During this assessment, it is important to look for signs of moisture or damage in the surrounding area.

It is also important to determine if the crack is the result of improper installation or if it is part of the natural aging of the stucco. If the crack was caused by improper installation, it’s best to have a professional repair the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage. If the crack is part of the aging process, it may be possible to fill in the crack with a product that’s designed for this purpose.

Interior Leaks

Stucco provides a traditional aesthetic and durability to homes, but without proper maintenance it can suffer from water damage and even structural failure. In addition to causing unsightly stains and cracks, water leaks from stucco can also lead to serious problems with mold and rot. By detecting and correcting stucco water leaks promptly, you can protect your home and save money.

The most common causes of stucco water leaks are due to a poor installation, or neglect of the weatherproofing system and painting maintenance. Since stucco is very porous, a thorough inspection of the exterior to identify problem areas such as cracked or missing stucco is recommended to prevent excessive moisture penetration. Inadequate flashing and paint maintenance can also cause moisture penetration, especially on south exposures where the wall is exposed to heavy wind driven rain.

If water penetrates the stucco and reaches the wood framing, it can create a rotting condition that requires extensive repair. In some cases, the rot may even reach the interior of your home. This can result in a musty odor and can damage drywall and other interior finishes. Identifying the presence of a hidden water leak in stucco can be difficult, but some cues to look for include dark spots around windows and doors or staining on the stucco itself.

Moisture stains and discoloration on the stucco are often a result of inadequate cleaning. Using a soft brush with a mild cleaner can help to remove these stains. Be sure to pre-wet the surface before washing to overcome absorption of dirty wash water back into the dull finish. Avoid using pressure washers on stucco, as this can erode the surface and accelerate deterioration.

The most important thing to remember is to catch leaks early, as water seepage through stucco will inevitably lead to mold, which in turn can damage your home’s structure and cause health issues for the entire family. Regular inspections of the exterior and interior walls can help you identify potential problem areas, such as a musty odor or brown stains on your stucco. By addressing these issues, you can save yourself the cost and hassle of mold remediation and other costly repairs.

Remediation

Stucco is a common choice for homes in hot and dry climates, but it may not be appropriate for every location. If heavy rains or snowstorms occur regularly in your area, the moisture can cause damage to your stucco. The problem stems from the fact that stucco is a very porous material, which means it will absorb the rain and snow that hits it. The moisture will eventually settle behind the surface, creating a pocket of water that can cause damage to wood and other materials in your home.

The best way to protect your stucco from moisture damage is to have it inspected annually for cracks, holes and separations. If you do spot a problem, it’s important to have it repaired in a timely fashion to prevent further problems. It’s also a good idea to wash your stucco periodically with a mild cleaner and a garden hose with a high-pressure jet. Pre-wetting the surface will help to overcome any absorption and keep dirty wash water from being absorbed back into the dull finish. Don’t use a pressure washer, though, as this can erode the finish.

Another problem is that a poorly executed stucco job can result in an uneven or unattractive finish. This can be a major drawback if you want a smooth, polished look on your walls. Additionally, the textured appearance of stucco may clash with certain interior design styles. While minor cracks and stains can be patched, extensive damage can be costly to repair.

Remediation is the process of reducing contamination at a site to levels that are acceptable for people and the environment. This can be done by removing the contaminants, treating them to reduce their effects, or containing them. Remediation is often required on sites where chemical or biological contaminants have been found.

In historic buildings, remediation can include cleaning or repairing the structure to remove deterioration and restore its appearance. It can also be used to repair a leaking roof or restore features such as doors, windows and moldings. It is important to record the extent of any damage before starting work, so that the results of the remediation can be compared with the original state. The initial step in most remediation projects is a scoping study, which uses information that’s already available to provide an overview of the site and issues. This is typically done as a desktop study, but may be supplemented by a field visit and meetings with key stakeholders.

The Importance of Roofing Maintenance

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The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It is important to maintain it to prevent leaks, rotting and other structural damage.

Roofing

Roof maintenance includes regular inspections to look for problems like leaking shingles or other damage. It also includes cleaning the gutters and checking the sealant around chimneys, vents and skylights. Contact Helena Roofing Company for specialized services.

The soffit and fascia may seem like small details on your roof, but they are vital for ventilation, moisture control and pest control. They also protect your home’s structure from serious damage and decay. If your soffit and fascia are damaged or rotting, it’s important to catch the problem early with regular inspections so that you can take care of the repairs before it’s too late.

The soffit is located underneath the eaves of your roof and connects to the gutter system, rafters and trusses. It is the first layer that directs rainwater from your roof and into a gutter, downspout, drain and away from the house. If the soffit is damaged, it’s likely that it will cause rot and water damage throughout the rest of your roof system as well.

A soffit is usually made from wood or vinyl and is designed to provide insulation, support for the gutter and protect the edge of your roof from rainwater. It’s also important that the soffit is protected from insects and other small animals, so it’s good to keep nearby trees trimmed and caulked.

Often, signs of wear or damage to the soffit and fascia include holes, cracks, or chips in the paint. These are all indications that it’s time to get the soffit and fascia repaired or replaced. It’s important to hire a professional to do the work to ensure that it is done properly and that your roof remains protected.

Soffits and fascia are often hidden from view so it’s easy to overlook them. However, it’s important to check them regularly for signs of rot or damage that can affect the rest of your roof. If you see any signs of rot or damage, it’s important to call a professional right away before the problem worsens. At Ledegar Roofing, our experienced roofing professionals can inspect your soffit and fascia boards for any rot or damage and repair it accordingly so that it doesn’t spread to the rest of your roof. 

Clean the Gutters

Blocked gutters can cause water to flow over the edge of the roof or through small holes and into the basement. They can also damage the shingles and lead to mold, mildew and wood rot. Regular maintenance can prevent these costly repairs.

Clean out the gutters by removing any leaves, twigs and other debris that have accumulated. It is a good idea to work by starting away from the downspout. This will help to keep gunk from reclogging the downspout as it falls down.

A scoop or trowel can be used to remove larger pieces of debris. A gutter cleaning brush may be necessary to dislodge stubborn clogs. It’s best to wear gloves to protect hands from any grit or dirt. A garden hose with a spray nozzle can be used to flush the gutters and downspouts. It is best to do this when the weather is dry and not raining or icy.

Once the gutters are cleaned, they should be inspected for any damage or signs of deterioration. In particular, check the caulking around the gutters and eaves for cracks or holes. Re-caulk these areas if needed.

While on the roof, check for any bird nests, spider webs or insect nests that need to be removed. Also, check for soft spots in the fascia boards that need to be repaired. Soft board can allow moisture to penetrate the soffit and roof, causing further problems.

If there are any overhanging branches, trim them to reduce the risk of limbs falling on the gutters and causing further damage. Lastly, check for damaged or missing shingles and replace them as needed.

Keeping your roof in excellent condition is the key to a long and happy life for your home or business. Regular maintenance can avoid serious problems and save you money in the future. Contact Roof Maxx today to learn more about our roofing services and see why we have so many satisfied customers!

Check the Roof for Debris

Debris that piles up on your roof creates a dam that blocks water from flowing off the roof. This traps moisture underneath the shingles, and it can lead to major roof damage over time. It also keeps sunlight from reaching the shingles, which can cause them to become more brittle and less effective at protecting your home from heat and cold.

It’s important to inspect your roof regularly for debris. If you can safely get on a ladder, look for areas of the roof where debris tends to accumulate, such as in valleys or near chimneys and vents. If you’re uncomfortable climbing on the roof, consider using binoculars from the ground or a drone to get close-up images and video footage (if local regulations permit it).

The most common debris is dirt from sweeping and construction activities. Stray nails and other debris can puncture or tear shingles and lead to leaks in your home. In addition, hail damages asphalt shingles by leaving dings in them that let water in. These dents can be hard to notice, but they should still be examined by a professional roofer.

Standing debris such as sticks and leaves can also block the flow of water off your roof. Debris buildup can also retain heat and moisture, which shortens the lifespan of your shingles. Finally, animal waste can be a problem for your roof. Bird droppings contain acids that eat away at asphalt shingles, and nesting materials and food hordes can clog ventilation outlets on the roof, leading to condensation in the attic.

Other items to check include making sure that the flashings (metal material that redirects water) around chimneys, dormers, and vent pipes aren’t dented or corroded. You should also check that the caulk on any skylights, vents, or chimneys isn’t leaking or cracked. It’s a good idea to trim any trees that hang over your roof, too. This prevents branches from falling during heavy storms or natural disasters and damaging your roof or the surrounding structures in a crash. Your roofing contractor will also make sure that the sealed edges of these features are properly in place to keep water out of your house.

Check the Interior

Before the snow and ice come, it is vital that the roof and gutters are free of debris. This includes pine needles, leaves, rocks and other loose items that can easily grip moisture and soak through the shingles. If this happens, the soaked shingles will be vulnerable to rot and leaks. This is especially important in the winter, when heavy storms and snow can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior.

On an annual basis, it’s also a good idea to inspect the interior of your roof. Checking around chimneys, pipes, vent pipes and skylights helps to prevent water leaking into the house. Inspect the caulking around these penetrations to ensure that it is still intact.

This is a maintenance item that is often overlooked, but it is very important to keep up with. If you do not, it is easy for problems to escalate and cause extensive damage. With a simple inspection, you can avoid many of these problems, saving yourself both money and hassle in the long run.