Massaro Restoration Services, LLC: Restoration Tips
As spring approaches, property owners should conduct an inspection of the property, particularly around the exterior and areas that would be difficult to inspect during the winter months. Some of the things that should be inspected for possible damages that may require repair or replacement are:
- Gutters/Downspouts – make sure all gutters and downspouts are clear from debris that may prohibit proper drainage. Make sure all seams and connections are secure.
- Roof – conduct a general inspection of the condition of the roof, regardless of whether it is a flat or pitched roof, metal, rubber or composition material, etc. Composition roofing commonly experiences expansion of the shingle tabs close to the roof edge during the winter months, which results from water freezing in the gutters and backing up under the tabs.
- Furnace/Air-Conditioning – have your HVAC system checked and serviced. Regular maintenance will provide a longer life for a very costly mechanical system for your property, and early detection of potential future system failure will result in a lower cost for repair as opposed to the substantial cost for replacing components.
- Landscaping – check trees/limbs that are close to the structure and trim as necessary. Limbs can cause gutter/downspout clogging, especially after heavy winds. Tree roots can also cause extensive damage to structure if they grow into the foundation. Grounds around the perimeter of the structure should be level or preferably sloping slightly away from the structure to prevent ground water from seeping into foundations.
- Chimney/Fireplace - have your chimney cleaned and inspected, especially after a winter of heavy use.
- Concrete - inspect all exterior concrete or paved areas for any cracking/heaving that may have resulted from the freeze/thaw of ice during the winter months and/or the application of salt.
- Alarm systems – it is important to check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and security systems on a regular basis. Always install new batteries in items that require them.
- Paint – exterior components that are painted should be inspected for any peeling/cracking. Scrape the areas; apply a primer and 2 coats of paint. Again, replacement would be much more costly. If possible, consider having exterior trim/soffit/fascia/etc. wrapped with vinyl to eliminate the need for yearly maintenance to such items. A little more cost this year will save you all costs for future years.
This is in no way an all-inclusive list; however, paying attention to your property and the condition of the major components on at least an annual basis will save you money and help to prevent a disaster to your home or business. Massaro Restoration Services, LLC is prepared to facilitate timely, cost-effective, and quality repairs to your property, any time, day or night. Call us at 412.599.0023.
