When you begin to notice signs of water damage on the ceiling of your home, the first thing you should do is check for roof leaks. If you can figure out where the water is coming in, you can figure out how to fix the leak and clean up the damage. The following procedure should be done while standing on the ground with binoculars. It is not safe to be walking on your roof if it is damaged, and you can cause additional damage while you are up there.

1. Locate the area in your home where the leak is coming through, and then find the corresponding spot on the roof above. This is where you will concentrate your search.
2. Search areas where there are pipes, ventilation stacks, chimneys, skylights, air conditioners and other things like this. These areas are hard to seal, so the leak may be coming from there.
3. Look above the affected area to see if water is running downslope under the roofing material.
4. Look for missing or cracked shingles, tiles, shakes, or flashing.
5. Examine valleys in the roof, which are spaces where two sections of roof meet. Water is channeled into these valleys, making them more prone to water damage.

Getting a regular roof inspection in Hanover, MA goes a long way towards preventing leaks and water damage. The team at South Shore Roofing can detect small issues before they become a huge and costly issue. Contact us today to get your free roofing consultation.

New England winters can be harsh, which can mean hard times for your roof. Snow and ice are one of the biggest dangers when it comes to maintaining your roof, so we’re here to tell you about the various types of damage that snow and ice can cause, and some tips on dealing with it.

Added Weight

One of the most obvious issues with snow and ice buildup on your roof is the added weight. This can lead to cracks in your drywall or cave-ins. Large accumulations of snow should be removed, but this can be a dangerous process. It is best to call a roofing contractor in Duxbury, MA to do this for you.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are formed when snow melts and runs underneath the remaining snow cover, where it refreezes. This prevents water from draining into your gutters, and the accumulated water can then create leaks.

You can prevent ice dams by making sure that your attic is properly ventilated. When the attic gets too warm in the winter it can cause snow to melt and refreeze. By getting a regular roof inspection, you can spot issues with your ventilation before they become an issue.

Removing the Snow

You may not be aware of this, but sometimes the process of removing the snow and ice can cause damage to your shingles. Scraping the shingles can remove granules and take years off of the lifespan of your roof. The best way to take care of your snow and ice issues is to call in a professional roofer. In the end you will save money on costly future repairs by paying a little for regular roof maintenance.