Your roof is a crucial part of your home or business. It is largely responsible for protecting the occupants and interior belongings from harsh elements, like ultraviolet light and hailstones. You need to maintain the condition of your roof on a regular basis in order to prevent persistent issues such as dry rot. In this article, one of the premier commercial roofing contractors in Illinois, Great Lakes Roofing and Siding, explains how to deal with dry rot should it become a problem on your roof.
A type of wood decay, dry rot is caused by fungi that harbors in areas in the roof where too much moisture content is present. It reproduces at an extremely fast rate and can lie dormant for several years until it comes into contact with moisture again. Older roofs are at significant risk of suffering from dry rot damage, especially if the wood components have not been treated for quite a long time.
It is important to regularly inspect your roofing system so you can detect and address dry rot before it spreads throughout the structure. Check the areas where water frequently collects, such as damaged gutters, blocked downspouts and wooden window sills. Look out for signs of cracking, splitting and discoloration.
If you suspect that you have found dry rot, residential roofing contractors suggest grabbing a screwdriver and gently applying pressure to the affected area. You can confirm the presence of dry rot if the sharp tool penetrates the wood without much effort.
Dry rot can spread at a rapid rate, compromising structural components such as bricks and ceilings. Make sure to fix the source of moisture by patching up any leaks in your roof or water pipes. If the case of dry rot is severe, contact a professional and let them repair the problem in a timely and efficient manner.
The best way to deal with dry rot is to prevent it. Hiring a roofing contractor to carry out seasonal maintenance, usually in the fall and spring, will help you avoid unexpected and potentially costly repairs in the future.
Breathe new life into your home with a new, energy-efficient roof. Great Lakes Roofing and Siding is one of the leading residential and industrial roofing contractors in Illinois. We work diligently to provide exceptional service from start to finish. Call at (224) 222-0470 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.
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