Top Tips for Flat Mobile Home Roof Health

Flat Roof Health is Important!

We know that a mobile home roof requires care and attention just like any other home or structure.  A good roof is essential to maintaining a safe and sound property. Due to the design of mobile homes, though, there are a few things to be aware of. There are also certain areas that require special attention. So in the interest of the safety, maintenance, and value of your home, we offer these tips for a healthy mobile home roof.

Tips for Maintaining A Healthy Roof

Mobile home roofs are of importance for two main reasons:

Keeping out the elements, especially ice and water which quickly spreads and damages walls and contents. Also, maintaining the integrity and energy efficiency of your mobile home to reduce heating and cooling costs and maintain good air quality. Ensuring roof health, safety and security start with awareness.

• Always keep an eye out for the obvious signs of damage, like water stains in ceilings and walls, or worse, dripping water.

• Be aware of the age of your roof and think prevention rather than remediation when roof shingles or other materials near the end of their viable lifespan (a general rule of thumb is 15 to 20 years).

• Be aware that less obvious conditions like ice back-up under roofing materials or ice dams, etc. This can be both a cause of damage and a sign that something in the roof system is not performing adequately. Mobile home roof health and safety also rely heavily on good roof maintenance.

• During periods of heavy weather or after a serious storm, inspect your roof or have a licensed contractor inspect it for you.

• Make sure shingles and roofing materials are intact and in place and that there is no sag in flat roofs.

• Any damaged portions of roofing should be repaired right away. This will prevent the spread of damage and secondary property damage or loss.

Do Your Homework

Hire the right person for the job if you do hire out inspections and repairs.  For example, as many mobile homes have flat roofs, a flat roofing contractor experienced and familiar with your type of roof might be necessary. Many issues can be prevented and the life of your roof extended by having the roof sealed annually.  How often this needs to be done will depend on the type of your mobile home roof.  For example, metal roofs normally require more frequent sealing than shingles. Flat roofs or nearly flat roofs have special needs, especially in cold climates in winter.  Heavy snow loads can spell disaster, and so significant accumulations require quick removal.  Again, here it is invaluable to know one or two knowledgeable, trustworthy flat roof contractors.

Although mobile home roof care and maintenance can be scary, and admittedly financially overwhelming, regular awareness and attention can prove an invaluable saving.  You will never regret the time and investment into this most important of mobile home structures. Or the peace of mind that comes in knowing you have your head and property protected.

Note: Some insurance policies require that your mobile home’s flat roof be sealed every 2 years or so. Please read your policies and make sure you follow the clauses. If you have to file a claim for anything involving the roof and they find that you haven’t had it sealed within the stated time frame, they will not approve the claim.  Some agents won’t volunteer the information so be sure you understand the policy completely.

Thanks for reading Mobile Home Living.