A Quick Guide to Essential Roof Maintenance Chores
The roof is integral and one of the most valuable components of every building. It withstands the harsh elements throughout its lifespan to keep the home protected and ensure a safe and comfortable environment. Every roof will require repairs and replacement eventually. However, one of the prime reasons behind major roof issues and premature replacements is the lack of care and maintenance. Improperly maintained roofs perform poorly, have a shorter lifespan, and experience problems more frequently.
This post discusses a few roof maintenance tasks every homeowner should perform to keep their roofing systems looking and performing at their best for several years.
Keep the roof free of debris
Leaves, twigs, and other organic debris accumulated on the roof keep the shingles damp and accelerate their deterioration. During rainstorms, this debris can end up clogging the gutter and causing various problems. Moss and algae can cause the roofing shingles to rot. Regular roof cleaning and washing prevents organic debris, mold, algae, and moss from damaging the shingles and decaying the roof structure.
Examine the shingles
Check the condition and integrity of shingles, especially after a major storm, to avoid potential leaks. Roof shingles also wear down over time due to age, extreme temperature, and exposure to elements. Inspect the roof using a binocular from the ground for missing, cracked, broken, or damaged shingles, backed-up nails, and other visible signs of damage. Call a roofer for necessary repairs.
Clean the gutters
Clean gutters are vital to a dry and well-functioning roofing system. Debris can clog the gutters over time, allowing water to back up underneath the shingles and causing the roof decking to rot. Overflowing gutters can also cause extensive damage to the siding, exterior walls, and foundation. Clean the gutters twice a year and ensure they are securely attached.
Trim the trees
Large trees around the home look beautiful but can threaten the roof. Another essential roof maintenance task is to prevent tree branches and other landscaping from growing too close to the roofing. Trim any large, overhanging limbs to prevent them from breaking and falling off the roof, causing damage during a storm, and preventing leaves from piling up.
Inspect attic and ceiling for signs of damage
Like a visual inspection of the roof’s exterior, examining the interiors for signs of damage is equally crucial. Check the walls and ceiling in the attic for leaks, musty odor, water stains, mold, wet insulation, peeling paint, light shining through the roof, and bulging patches. Call a roofer to locate the leak source and perform repairs.
Check around roof protrusions
Check the area around chimneys, vents, pipes, and skylights. If there are any gaps, use caulk or roofing tar to seal them and prevent moisture from infiltrating the roof.
Schedule a professional roof inspection
The best way to keep the roof in the best shape and last longer is by hiring a professional roofer for a thorough examination. While homeowners can perform several roof maintenance tasks, annual inspections by an experienced roofing contractor are essential to spot hidden damages, identify potential problems early, and avoid major repairs. Roofers can also warn in time about impending roof replacement to help plan for finances.
Your Roofologist is a Plano-based licensed roofing contractor specializing in consumer protection in the residential and commercial roofing industry for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. We offer services such as roof inspections, roof repair and replacement, and other exterior and home improvement repairs. We transform homes with ten years of experience backed by excellent service, pride in our workmanship, and a warranty. Call us at (469)535-7852.
