BLOG

5 TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR ROOF YEAR-ROUND

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your roof and preventing costly repairs. At MEJÍA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LLC, we’ve been helping homeowners keep their roofs in top condition for over 10 years. Here are our top 5 tips for maintaining your roof year-round.

1. INSPECT YOUR ROOF REGULARLY

Regular inspections are essential for spotting small issues before they turn into major problems. Ideally, you should inspect your roof at least twice a year—once in the spring and again in the fall. Here’s what to look for:

Loose or missing shingles: Wind, hail, and storms can cause shingles to become loose or break off, leaving your roof exposed to water damage.

Cracked or damaged flashing: Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can deteriorate over time, allowing water to seep into your home.

Debris build-up: Leaves, branches, and other debris can clog gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up on your roof.

If you're not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself, contact a professional to perform a thorough inspection.

2. CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

Clogged gutters are one of the most common causes of roof damage. When gutters and downspouts become blocked with leaves, dirt, or debris, water can back up and pool on your roof, potentially causing leaks or mold growth. Regularly cleaning your gutters ensures proper water drainage and reduces the risk of water damage to your roof and home.

Make it a habit to clean your gutters at least twice a year—more frequently if you live in an area with heavy tree cover.

3. TRIM OVERHANGING BRANCHES

Tree branches that hang over your roof can cause significant damage, especially during storms or high winds. Overhanging branches can scratch your roof’s surface, damage shingles, or even fall onto your roof during severe weather. Trim back any branches that are too close to your roof to prevent these issues. It’s also a good idea to remove any dead or weak branches that could pose a risk of falling.

4. CHECK FOR MOSS AND ALGAE GROWTH

Moss and algae can grow on your roof, especially in damp or shaded areas. Over time, this growth can lift shingles, causing water to seep beneath and lead to leaks. To prevent moss and algae growth:

Regularly inspect your roof for signs of moss or algae.

Clean your roof with a gentle, roof-safe cleaner designed to remove organic growth.

Install zinc or copper strips at the ridge of your roof to help prevent moss and algae from growing in the first place.

If the problem is severe, you may want to call in a professional to safely remove moss and algae from your roof.

5. ADDRESS LEAKS AND DAMAGE IMMEDIATELY

If you notice any signs of water damage in your home, such as stains on the ceiling, mold, or musty odors, it's essential to address the issue right away. A small leak can quickly escalate into a major problem, potentially causing structural damage or mold growth inside your home.

If you spot any signs of leaks or damage, contact a roofing professional immediately for a thorough inspection and repair. Timely action can help prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs down the road.

WHY REGULAR CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS ARE CRUCIAL

Your chimney plays an essential role in ensuring that your fireplace or heating system operates safely and efficiently. However, over time, chimneys can accumulate soot, creosote, debris, or even experience damage from weather and use. Regular chimney inspections are key to identifying potential problems early and ensuring the safety of your home and family. At MEJÍA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LLC, we believe in proactive maintenance, which is why we recommend scheduling chimney inspections regularly. Here’s why they’re so crucial.

1. PREVENTING CHIMNEY FIRES

One of the leading causes of chimney fires is the build-up of creosote, a flammable substance that forms when wood burns. Over time, this creosote accumulates in the chimney flue, and if not cleaned or inspected regularly, it can ignite and lead to a dangerous fire. A professional chimney inspection helps identify creosote build-up early, allowing you to remove it before it becomes a fire hazard.

To reduce the risk of chimney fires, it’s recommended to have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year, especially if you use your fireplace frequently.

2. ENSURING PROPER VENTILATION

A properly functioning chimney helps ventilate smoke, gases, and other byproducts of combustion out of your home. If the chimney becomes clogged with debris, such as leaves, birds’ nests, or animal remains, it can obstruct airflow and lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside your home. Regular chimney inspections help identify and remove any blockages, ensuring proper ventilation and reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

3. IDENTIFYING STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

Chimneys are exposed to harsh weather conditions throughout the year, which can lead to wear and tear. Common issues include cracks in the masonry, damage to the flue liner, and deterioration of chimney caps or crowns. Structural damage can cause water leaks, compromising the integrity of your chimney and even allowing water to seep into your home. A professional chimney inspection will identify any potential structural issues, allowing for timely repairs before they become more costly and severe.

4. IMPROVING FIREPLACE EFFICIENCY

A well-maintained chimney can improve the efficiency of your fireplace or heating system. When a chimney is obstructed or in poor condition, it can restrict airflow, leading to poor combustion, inefficient heating, and even smoke backing up into your living space. By scheduling regular chimney inspections, you can ensure that your system is working efficiently, saving energy and improving the overall comfort of your home.

5. COMPLIANCE WITH SAFETY REGULATIONS

In some areas, local building codes and regulations require regular chimney inspections, especially for homes that use wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. A certified chimney professional can ensure that your chimney is up to code, keeping your home in compliance with safety regulations. This is especially important if you’re buying or selling a home, as an inspection can provide peace of mind to potential buyers about the condition of the chimney.

HOW TO MAXIMIZE NATURAL LIGHT WITH SKYLIGHTS

Natural light can completely transform a space, making it feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. One of the best ways to increase the amount of natural light in your home or business is by installing skylights. Skylights not only provide a source of natural illumination but can also enhance the architectural beauty of your space. At MEJÍA GENERAL CONSTRUCTION LLC, we specialize in skylight installation and repair. Here’s how you can maximize the benefits of natural light with skylights..

1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF SKYLIGHT

Not all skylights are created equal, and the type of skylight you choose can impact the amount of natural light you receive. There are several types of skylights to consider, depending on your needs:

Fixed Skylights: These are non-operable and ideal for spaces where you want to let in maximum light without the need for ventilation.

Ventilating Skylights: These skylights can be opened to allow fresh air to flow into the room while still providing natural light.

Tubular Skylights: These are smaller, more compact skylights designed to bring light into smaller, darker spaces like hallways or bathrooms.

When selecting a skylight, consider the orientation of your roof and how much direct sunlight the area receives. South-facing skylights generally provide the most consistent light throughout the day, while north-facing skylights offer a more diffused, cooler light.

2. PLACE SKYLIGHTS STRATEGICALLY

To maximize the amount of light that enters your home, it’s important to place skylights in the right locations. Here are some tips:

Over Living Areas: Installing skylights above key areas like living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens can help brighten these high-traffic areas and reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Dark Hallways or Rooms: Skylights are a great way to bring light into spaces that often feel dim, such as corridors, bathrooms, or closets. A small skylight can make a big difference in brightening these areas.

Near Windows: Pairing skylights with windows in adjacent walls can create cross-ventilation and allow for an even distribution of light in a room.

Consider the layout and purpose of the room before placing your skylights to achieve the best lighting effect.

3. USE REFLECTIVE SURFACES TO ENHANCE LIGHT DISTRIBUTION

Once you have installed skylights, you can enhance the natural light they provide by incorporating reflective surfaces throughout your space. Lighter colors and materials reflect natural light and distribute it more evenly. Here are a few ways to do this:

Light-colored Walls and Ceilings: Paint your walls and ceilings with light, reflective colors such as white or pale neutrals to help bounce light around the room.

Mirrors: Strategically placing mirrors opposite your skylights can amplify and direct natural light into other areas of the room.

Glossy or Reflective Flooring: Polished wood, tile, or other shiny materials can help reflect light and make your space feel even brighter.

These subtle design choices can help increase the impact of the natural light coming through your skylights.

4. CONSIDER SKYLIGHT SHADES OR BLINDS FOR CONTROL

While skylights bring much-needed light into a space, sometimes it’s important to have control over the amount of sunlight entering the room. Skylight shades or blinds allow you to adjust the light levels based on your needs, reducing glare and providing privacy when necessary. Here are some options:

Solar Shades: These allow light to filter through while reducing heat gain, making them an ideal choice for energy efficiency.

Manual or Motorized Blinds: You can open or close blinds to control the amount of light and heat entering the room.

Tinted Skylights: Some skylights come with built-in tinting or glazing that can reduce the intensity of sunlight without blocking the view.

With these options, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light while maintaining comfort and privacy.

5. MAINTAIN AND CLEAN YOUR SKYLIGHTS REGULARLY

To ensure that your skylights continue to provide maximum light, regular maintenance is essential. Over time, dirt, debris, and weathering can build up on the glass, reducing the amount of light that enters your space. Cleaning your skylights regularly will help maintain their clarity and effectiveness.

Here’s how to clean your skylights safely:

Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to wipe down the glass to prevent scratches.

Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the skylight or surrounding areas.

Hire a professional to clean hard-to-reach skylights or to perform any necessary repairs.

A well-maintained skylight will continue to brighten your home for years to come.

BLOG

5 TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR ROOF YEAR-ROUND

WHY REGULAR CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS ARE CRUCIAL

HOW TO MAXIMIZE NATURAL LIGHT WITH SKYLIGHTS

SERVICES

CONTACT