Owning a home is a lot of work, and it’s easy to let annual maintenance slip through the cracks. This is particularly true when it comes to the upkeep of certain, lesser seen features, often assumed to be functioning smoothly even when in need of attention.

The Importance of Yearly Chimney, Gutter and Roof Maintenance

Taking the time each year to assess the condition of your chimney or wood stove is a very important step in maintaining a comfortable and safe living space. Staying on top of chimney repairs and cleaning prevents roof and chimney fires, and keeps your home free of smoke and harmful gases. While seeing to the upkeep of your chimney or wood stove, don’t forget about some other commonly overlooked features of the home. It is equally important to see to the annual maintenance of the gutters and roof, which are exposed to the elements all year long.

Many homeowners wait to have their gutters cleaned until they are hopelessly clogged. Unfortunately, clogged gutters can result in damage to roofing materials and foundation, and in the worst of cases, leaking and water damage in the home. Maintaining clean gutters throughout the year is a simple thing that prevents such situations, in addition to keeping insects and birds from nesting, and maintaining the value and beauty of your home.

Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, but that doesn’t mean constant exposure to the elements won’t eventually cause wear and tear. If your home has a slate roof, assessing it each year for broken or missing tiles, faulty flashing, and possible leaks can save time and money in the future, should damage occur over time. Invisible cracks may exist at the time of installation, or cracks may occur due to moisture or walking on the roof. Noticing these issues and addressing them right away is easy, compared with a complete renovation if these problems add up over time.