How long has it been since you checked out your roof? With everything on your to-do list, climbing up on your roof might be the last thing on your mind. However, keeping up with roof maintenance is critical if you want to extend your roof’s lifespan.
So, if it’s been a couple of years (or possibly never), it’s probably time for some roof maintenance.
You want to ensure your roof is in good shape and able to protect you from the elements. By keeping up with routine roofing maintenance, such as annual roof inspections, you’ll deter expensive and dangerous roofing problems.
In this guide, we’ll cover some general tips for maintaining your roof, including signs of damage to watch for.
Tips For Great Roof Maintenance
Your roofing system protects your home from the elements, debris, and much more. While some roofing materials can last up to 50 years, it’s crucial to regularly evaluate your roof, no matter what roofing system you have.
Here are some simple tips to extend your roof’s lifespan and ensure it’s in great shape.
Regularly Clean The Gutters
Your gutters play a significant role in the quality of your roofing system. Gutters protect your roof and other home exterior elements from water damage, so they need to be well-maintained.
Make sure you check your gutters around once a year – or more if there’s been a significant storm. Ensure you check for leaks, cracks, rust, or mold. Also, clear out any clogs or upgrade to leaf guards to keep debris from building up.
Trim Trees And Shrubs
When trees and other plants brush against your home, they pose risks to safety and property. Plants will drop leaves and debris, which can clog your gutters. There is also an increased risk of a branch falling and damaging your rooftop.
So, if your trees or shrubs are encroaching too close to your home, it’s a good time to trim them yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Look For Signs Of Roofing Damage
After any large storm, do a quick overview of your roof. You can see many signs of damage from the ground. If you get up on the roof, be extremely careful, as it can be dangerous if you’re not a professional with training and proper equipment.
Some signs of roofing damage to watch for include:
- Cracked or missing tiles
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Water leaks
- Signs of mold or moss
If you spot any signs of roofing damage, call a professional to further inspect the roof.
Prevent Snow Build-Up
Too much snow build-up on your roof can cause water damage or ice dams. While most roofing systems are set up to prevent snow and ice accumulation, issues with the drainage system or insulation impact the run-off.
It’s difficult and often unsafe to remove snow and ice on your own, so this is a task that’s best left to roofing pros.
Get Routine Roofing Inspections
The last and most important way to maintain your roof is to request annual roofing inspections. Regardless of the type of roofing system you have, a roofing inspection ensures your roof doesn’t have any significant damage. A roofing professional can also suggest minor repairs or maintenance tips after their visit.
Final Note On Roof Maintenance
As you follow these five simple steps, you’ll have a better idea of the state of your roof and prevent more extensive, expensive roofing damage. When dealing with your roof, always be cautious and keep yourself safe. When in doubt, contact the pros.
