Roof replacements and roof repairs are expensive and, sometimes, invasive. There is nothing more detrimental to a homeowner than a faulty roof. When your roof loses shingles, cracks, or suffers leaks, your home is exposed to the elements and your family suffers the consequences–leaks alone can cause devastating water damage, foster the growth of dangerous molds and bacteria, all while increasing your energy bills. When you’ve had a roof replacement, you expect your new roof to last: not struggle with continuous roof repairs.
We at Beyond Exteriors believe in only the highest-quality roof repairs and roof replacements. Still, keeping your roof in tip-top shape for years to come takes a little TLC. When your roof is well-maintained it stays stronger for longer, preventing avoidable damage from occurring and minimizing the damage that does occur. With these roof-maintenance tips, you can make your roof last forever.
Essential Roof Care Tips
Assess at Least Twice a Year and After Severe Weather
At least twice a year, and after severe weather, you will want to give your roof a thorough inspection. From your yard, look for any loose or crooked shingles. Keep an eye out for rotting trim, sagging, and any apparent discolorations. Usually, you’ll be able to note missing shingles, sagging, rot, and holes from below. To get the best assessment of your roof, however, you’ll want to get up close and personal. Ascending a ladder and investigating your roof from above will give you a better understanding of the true state of your roof. You’ll want to look for cracked shingles, worn shingle granules, and any moss or mold growing on or under the shingles. By assessing your roof twice a year and after severe weather, you can catch small problems before they grow into larger problems by pursuing targeted and immediate roof repairs.
Clean Your Gutters
Neglecting your gutters can cause unnecessary damage to the integrity of your roof. Clogged and overburdened gutters prevent your roof from draining. When your roof’s drainage is impeded, undue stress is put on your roof. Pooling water in roof valleys is a common result of clogged gutters–pooled water leads to mold growth and rot and, when frozen, can cause major structural damage. Clogged gutters also lead to a buildup of debris, further straining your roof. Keeping your gutters clean ensures your roof drains efficiently and thoroughly, preventing rough wear-and-tear from debris.
Remove Leaves and Moss
Leaves, and moss, and branches–oh my! When debris collects on your roof it wears down on the shingles and blocks drainage. Debris also adds unnecessary weight to your roof, causing structural straining. Leaves, moss, and branches also encourage the growth of mold and moss which can infiltrate into your home and spread bacteria. Debris damage is completely avoidable simply by actively cleaning leaves, moss, and branches from your roof.
Trim Infringing Branches
Trimming tree branches that arc above your home is a great way to minimize possible debris collection and prevent a damaging collision in inclement weather. Branches scraping across your roof can tear shingles,
loose shingles, or pierce holes. Trimming infringing branches protects your roof and encourages longevity.
How to Make an Asphalt Roof Last
Though asphalt roofs are widely regarded as low-maintenance, regular inspections are key. Most local contractors are trained to professionally and properly care for, and repair, asphalt roofs. Keep your asphalt roof clean and free of debris, and be sure to do regular inspections. The state of your shingles is the state of your roof: worn shingles, loose shingles, cracked shingles, and missing shingles are all a sign that you may need an inspection or repairs. Should an issue arise that may call for repairs, you’ll want to call a professional right away. The quicker the issue is resolved, the smaller the damage and the costs.
How to Make a Metal Roof Last
Metal roofs are one of the most durable kinds of roofs, and are popular due to their longevity and low-maintenance. To make a metal roof last, you’ll want to approach the metal roof installation with great diligence. You’ll want to make sure your metal roof is installed properly by a qualified professional with high-quality materials. High-quality metal will last a lifetime–cheap metal won’t. For metal roofs, effective installation is key: the quality of the installation determines the longevity of your metal roof.
How to Make Shingles & Shakes Last
Wood shingle and wood shake roofs are both beautiful and insulating, but they are also incredibly vulnerable to moisture and bugs. Though most shingles and shakes have some form of rot-resistance and insect resistance, they are not immune. To make your shingle roof or shake roof last, keep debris off of your roof. It is also important to make sure the shingles and shakes are properly ventilated.Though best done before installation, shingles and shakes can be chemically treated to further reduce moisture and insect vulnerability, and problem areas may be touched-up with a sealant.
How to Make Slate Roofs Last
Slate roofs are astoundingly durable and extremely long-lasting. Much like metal roofs, their longevity is directly correlated with the quality of installation. To make your slate roof last, you’ll want to invest in quality materials that are more durable and reliable, and you’ll want to retain the quality installation services of a professional roofing contractor.
Thought this post was helpful? Check out our previous roof repair post, “The 5 Biggest Dangers to Your Home’s Roof.”