Your roof is a vital component of your home. It protects the structure and you, your family and your belongings from the elements. But if your roof isn’t in good shape, anything from a brief rain shower to an all-out storm can result in hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars of damage that you may or may not be able to claim with your real estate insurance in Los Angeles, depending on the situation. To avoid this, Grand Mutual Insurance wants you to keep the following pointers in mind:
- Keep your roof free of debris. Leaves, branches, dirt and debris can all quickly build up on your roof. This can cause water to pool and eventually affect the integrity of the roofing material, resulting in leaks. Use a sturdy ladder — if possible, steadied by another person — to access the roof and remove all of the debris that’s built up there. Remember to wear shoes with anti-slip soles to prevent yourself from slipping.
- Clean the gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters and downspouts can also lead to pooling water and cause damage. Remove any built-up debris in them by scooping it out and disposing of it appropriately.
- Remove moss and mold. Angie’s List recommends using a roof moss remover to clear away moss and mold. Be sure to wear protective eye goggles and gloves, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.
- Trim overhanging branches. Overhanging branches contribute significantly to the buildup of debris on your roof; plus, a falling branch could cause tremendous damage. That’s why it’s wise to hire an arborist to trim any branches that hang too close to or over the roof.
- Perform regular visual inspections. Begin with the interior — in other words, the attic. Look for any signs of moisture or leaks. Then examine the exterior of the roof, including the soffits and fascia. Look for wear and tear, cracks, holes or signs of rotting. Keep in mind that while you might be able to patch up small cracks or holes yourself, it’s wise to hire a roofing contractor if there’s extensive damage.
- Maintain your chimney. If you have a chimney, you need to keep it in good shape, too. Redfin advises inspecting it for cracked or missing mortar and making repairs as needed. Additionally, inspect the flashing for signs of wear and tear, and repair any damage.
- Schedule professional maintenance once a year. In addition to performing your own inspections and maintenance, it’s advisable to have a professional roofer inspect your roof once a year and make repairs as needed. To find a reliable roofer, ask your neighbors or local estate agents for referrals. You can also look in the Yellow Pages or on Angie’s List. Select at least three roofers, and ask them for quotes. Before choosing one, always remember to check the company’s credentials including references, business license and general liability insurance.
Maintaining your roof might not be your favorite way to spend a Saturday afternoon, but in the long run, it can save you a lot of money in terms of costly repairs. In fact, it can even lengthen the time before you need a roof replacement — and that’s well worth the effort.
Real Estate Insurance in Los Angeles
Insurance just became easier. Grand Mutual Insurance is a full-service, protection-first agency that is committed to delivering the best options for real estate insurance in Los Angeles at a competitive price. To learn more about our personalized service and coverage options, get in touch with Grand Mutual today.
