Is Your Home’s Roof Ready For The Harsh Weather Ahead? (NAPSA)—When it comes to a ewe protecting the value of your home and what’s in it, think two words: yourroof. Your home’s roofis its first line of defense against rain, snow, cold air and harsh weather in general. And so if you're smart, experts say, you'll want to check what kind of shape yours is in twice a year. That means being on the lookout for missing shingles or deteriorated flashing (the metal that seals bends and joints on skylights, chimneys, etc.). More than 90 percent of roof damage occurs in these two areas, and catchingit early can be key to preventing bigger problems. Here are more hints that can help: Knowing WhenTo Inspect Check your roof every spring after severe weather and every winter before the worst weather sets 1n. What To Look For e Examine the roof edge for damage from wind, rain or ice dams. The dams occur when water freezes and backs up under the roofing system. Inspect for signs of mold, algae and mildew, such as dark spots and discolored shingles. Inadequate or faulty shingle underlayment can be behindthis. Look for blistering or peeling paint due to poor attic ventilation. Ca ee 2! , View your roof regularly to check for damage, so it can continue to protect you from the elements. Roof Maintenance Leaves, sticks and other debris can cause water to back up and flow under a roof, so clean out your gutters and roof drains regularly. Also, check that all gutters are securely fastened to the house and that downspouts are pointing away from your home. What To Do If You Spot Damage If your inspection reveals roof damage, work with professional roof contractors who are bonded, insured and use quality materials. They can help you prolongthe life of your roof and keep you from having to spend moneyon costly future repairs. A free service that helps homeowners find a qualified roofing contractor is available from North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, GAF Materials Corporation. Call (888) LEAK-SOSorvisit www.gaf.com.
