The energy surrounding Saratoga Springs at the end of July is alive. From the excitement of the crowds at the Saratoga Race Course to visitors looking for their dream summer rental in town, it's an exciting time. As a homeowner who rents your house in Saratoga during “The Meet,” you know the importance of making a good impression on your renters. Fresh towels and a well-stocked refrigerator are both nice touches; however, these will be forgotten by your renters if there is a water spot on the ceiling due to a leaky roof. A roof is not just aesthetically pleasing but also very safe—the importance of having a roof that is ready for “the meet” cannot be stressed enough."
Inspect for Winter and Spring Damage Before Guests Arrive
By the time the bugles start sounding in July your roof has been through an extremely harsh New York State winter and then hit with a very wet Spring. It is a good idea to do a quick walk around on the ground and look at your roof before your guests arrive. Using a pair of binoculars from the ground you can easily see if there are any shingles that have curled up, split, or even fallen off. The historic districts of Saratoga County get many strong gusts of wind, especially into the edges of old roofs. Finding any problems like this when it's still June will give you enough time to make some repairs before the normal August rush for contractors, so your guests won't be bothered by a work crew while they're on vacation.
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Enhance Curb Appeal with Professional Gutter and Debris Cleaning
The Saratoga rental market requires both beauty and function. Gutters filled with maple seeds and last year’s oak leaves will ruin “Saratoga charm” quicker than anything else. While clogged gutters may be unsightly, it will allow water to back-up under your roofing material (shingles) and create interior water damage during the next summer storm. On the other hand, clean gutters will direct heavy rain flow around your home’s foundation and guest entrance. Cleaning an older roof through a professional “soft wash” of moss or dark streaks will instantly give you an advantage on the internet with quality photo images in those competitive rental listings.
Check Flashing and Seals to Prevent Summer Leak Surprises
The area around Saratoga is also well-known for the frequent afternoon thunderstorms. This creates an opportunity for heavy amounts of rain to fall on a surface in a relatively small amount of time. Roof leaks often occur not in the center of a shingle but rather where there is transition (e.g., near chimneys, skylights, etc.) Be sure to inspect all metal flashing and ensure the sealants have not cracked from excessive heat during the summer months. Additionally, if you have finished attics or vaulted ceilings with skylights, those are likely going to be exposed to most of this moisture. Taking the initiative to check these areas will keep your guests dry while protecting your hardwood flooring.
Document Your Roof’s Condition for Liability and Peace of Mind
The time to take photographs of your roof and siding before your summer tenant moves in is now. These will be used as reference if there is an extreme weather event such as a large hail storm during the off-season; this will greatly help with filing an insurance claim. It also allows you to feel confident that your home is in top condition. If you plan on renting out your property at a higher rate than average for Saratoga Springs then it is essential to have a safe and clean environment. There is no better way to prepare for a profitable racing season than having a strong, clean roof.