Page 29 - Dockside Magazine Muskoka, Summer/Fall 2018

The fall season is approaching and it’s important to ensure your cottage roof is prepared for the colder months.
That begins with a very simple first step: look at your roof. Regular inspections
as part of a good roof maintenance plan, says Roger Haviland, President of AM Group of Companies. “You can often check for issues by doing a perimeter search,” says Roger, a third- generation roofing expert. The inspection can be done from a ladder, or by using binoculars or a drone. “It’s not a good idea to get on your roof; that’s a job for trained professionals.”
On shingled roofs, look for missing shingles or those appearing loose: they may
VISUAL INSPECTION
Avoid big issues with regular roof maintenance checks
need repair or replacement before winter arrives.
Checking for cracks or gaps
is also imperative, since they can quickly lead to serious problems. The roof is designed to expand and contract during summer’s temperature swings, but eventually that movement – combined with damage from constant UV rays – can cause cracks and gaps to appear. Cracks don’t just occur in roofing materials: they also happen in sealants used for watertight pipes, skylights and chimneys.
“If you find these issues, call a professional immediately,” says Roger. “Water can leak into your cottage and cause a lot of damage.”
Should you find any missing shingles or cracks on your
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW FEARMAN
roof, an interior inspection can help determine if there are leakage concerns. Check the ceilings and attic for signs of water damage. Moisture build- up in attic spaces can lead to black mold, which can pose health risks.
In addition to inspecting your roof, be sure to clean out your eavestrough of clogs and debris before the leaves begin to fall. An eavestrough not working properly can overflow and cause water damage to your siding, landscaping and foundation.
“Regular check-ups and maintenance will keep your
roof in great shape,” says Roger. “If you’re not quite sure about missing shingles or other potential issues, the best bet is to call a quality roofing company to do an inspection.”
AM Roofing Solutions offers free consultations and no-obligation estimates. Established in 1956, the
now four-generation
roofing company is among the oldest family-owned businesses in Ontario.
They provide expert installations on a variety of roofing options –
from shingles to metal – and give their clients honest quotes, says Roger.
“If you need a new roof, we’ll let you know and help you choose the right material,” he says. “However, if your roof is still young and in decent shape, we’ll let you know if a little maintenance will do the trick.” DS
BY CHRIS OCCHIUZZI
2251 Highway 11 South, Gravenhurst 705-445-3540 www.AMRoofing.ca
Rob Purser of AM Roofing Solutions