Fibreglass roofing is the prominent option across both residential and commercial properties, known for its greater durability, affordability, and lightweight nature. But, similar to numerous other roofing systems, it involves proper periodic maintenance, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. The appropriate fibreglass roof maintenance tips can help prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs in the future and notably increase the lifespan of the roof. Today, we are going to check out a few of the best tips that help to maintain the fibreglass roof to ensure its overall longevity and performance.
Lifespan Of Fibreglass Roofs
The typical lifespan of the fibreglass roof relies on several different factors that include the scheduled maintenance, installation quality, amount of damage happening over time, and the local climate. Following the appropriate maintenance and care, the fibreglass roof has a lifespan of about 20 to 30 years and often 50 years. It is generally longer than the conventional felt roofs that need replacement after 10 to 15 years.
The fibreglass roof is built out of materials that are extremely resistant to impact the weathering components involving UV radiation, as well as hail stones that degrade over time. They consist of top-level fire resistance, making them perfect for buildings located in areas often prone to serious weather conditions. They need a bit of maintenance in place of the general cleaning about once or twice each year that retain their overall look. With less effort, the roofs stay shielded against the daily environmental damages throughout their lifecycle.
Fibreglass Roof Maintenance Tips
Regular Inspections
One of the essential attributes behind the maintenance of fibreglass roofs is performing regular inspections. The professionals suggest roof inspections about twice each year, mainly in the fall and the springtime. The inspections should follow the notable weather conditions, including heavier snowfall or storms. In these inspections, search for damages involving blisters, cracks, or any other areas where the fibreglass starts to lift. The fiberglass roofing service can help locate the issues at their onset prevent extensive damages and expensive repairs.
Repair Minor Damage Immediately
The small chips or cracks on the surface of the fibreglass may become insignificant as they worsen whenever left untreated. These petty issues enable the moisture to penetrate the roofing structure, leading to notable damages over time. The fibreglass repair kit has the potential to fix the smaller chips or cracks, or you can hire the right professionals for fibreglass roofing to handle the repair jobs. Following the appropriate type of maintenance plans and on-time repairs can help retain the structural integrity of the roof for several years.
Keep It Clean
The accumulation of debris is a general issue happening across flat roofs. The branches, leaves, dirt, and other debris often trap the moisture within, leading to the growth of mould and possible water-related damage. Following regular cleaning jobs and following the right winter roof maintenance tips can help in the prevention of these issues. Here you can use the leaf blower or a broom to remove the debris and try washing the roof with the help of water and soft detergent to remove the stains or dirt. Stay gentle not to cause any damage to the surface of the fibreglass.
Address Ponding Water
These roofs are often prone to the ponding water. This is where the water stays on the surface for over 48 hours following the rainfall. The greater exposure to standing water often damages the fibreglass materials, leading to potential leaks. Try ensuring that the roof has the right type of drainage system, like the downspouts and gutters, that helps with the water run-off. If you find ponding water on your roof, then the roofing contractors can available the drainage and undertake the proper repairs or adjustments.
Watch for Signs of Mould or Mildew
The buildup of moisture often becomes the breeding ground for the growth of mildew and mould onto the fibreglass roof. The fungi start growing in damp spaces, and their existence becomes a sign of water infiltration or bad ventilation. It causes significant damage to the fibreglass materials, posing significant health-related risks. If you come across any musty smells of bad ventilation, it is essential to address the issues promptly. Getting the affected areas cleaned with the help of mild bleaching solutions for the effective removal of mildew or mould. You can get in touch with a professional fibreglass roofing service for extensive infestations to evaluate the condition and offer professional cleaning jobs.
Check and Maintain Flashing
Flashing forms a key part of the roofing systems, including the fibreglass roofs. It helps to seal the edges and the joints of the roof preventing water from entering in it. The flashing gets damaged over time, causing leakages. You should pay close attention to the skylights, vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations during the roofing inspections. Also, ensure that your roof is in its complete form and appropriately sealed. Also, repair or replace the flashing required for retaining the roofing strength.
Protect Against UV Damage
Fibreglass roofing is often resistant to UV damage; however, extended exposure to harsh sun rays has a damaging impact. With time, the UV rays weaken the materials of the fibreglass, leading to fading or cracking. The application of the reflective coating on the roof can help prevent UV damage. These are the coatings that help to safeguard the UV rays while minimising the cooling costs and reflecting the sunlight.
Hire a Professional Fibreglass Roofing Service
Although regular DIY inspections and upkeep prove effective, hiring professional roofing services offers a more extensive evaluation of the roof’s condition. A roofing expert is equipped with the right skills and tools to identify potential issues that an untrained eye can hardly find. They even conduct more extensive inspections, perform the required repairs, and apply protective coatings, ensuring the roof’s pristine condition. Hiring experts to maintain the roof is the ideal way to identify issues soon and avoid expensive repairs.
Conclusion
Following the right fibreglass roofing maintenance tips can prolong the lifespan and overall performance of the roofing systems. Proper cleaning jobs, inspections, and on-time repairs can help prevent notable damages, and professional services ensure the pristine condition of the roof. Sterling Roofing Contractors Ltd specialises in offering high-end roofing services. Our team of qualified roofers is dedicated to safeguarding your lifetime investment and retaining the condition of the roof. Contact us today for a no-obligation roof inspection!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Inspect My Fibreglass Roof?
It is advised that a fibreglass roof be checked regularly, at least twice every year or during the start of spring and autumn seasons, to look for cracks, damages, or even debris. It also controls the problems before developing into severe ones that may require expensive repairs.
Can I Repair Small Cracks in My Fibreglass Roof Myself?
Absolutely, the fibreglass repair kit can repair smaller chips or cracks. However, for major issues or when you are unsure about the repairs, it is ideal to hire the best roofing services.
How Can I Protect My Fibreglass Roof from UV Damage?
Using the UV-resistant coating over your fibreglass roof will assist in preventing any damage by the sun’s rays from penetrating the roof. To make sure the protection of the UV degradation continues to be effective, reapply the coating after 2 to 3 years.