A well-installed and well-maintained roof should keep you safe and dry for many years. Shingles and other roofing materials are designed to withstand a lot of pressure from the elements. Over time, they will suffer from wear and tear, but if you keep on top of maintenance, you can usually solve problems quickly and easily.
No matter whether your roof is new or old, taking regular steps will keep things in working order for a longer period of time. Take a look at these three top practices for residential roofing maintenance, which will ensure that your roof protects you effectively for many years to come.
Keep the Gutters Clean
One of the best ways you can help keep your roof in working order is to regularly clean and maintain your gutters. Gutters help to carry rainwater and melting snow away from your home. However, if the gutters get blocked or are damaged in any way, leaks can happen.
You should clean your gutters at least twice a year and make regular inspections. Make sure any leaves and branches are scooped away and check for any signs of damage. It will help you to look out for sandy residue, which may indicate that you have some damaged shingles. Any damaged or broken parts of the gutters should be fixed straight away.
Keep a Close Eye on Your Shingles
It is an excellent idea to do visual inspections of your roof. Try to walk around your home every month to see if there are any visible signs of damage or if any debris has accumulated on the roof. Rotting tree branches can cause damage to shingles.
If you notice any signs of damage, you should arrange for repairs as soon as possible. Getting in touch with a professional is highly recommended to ensure that the problem is effectively taken care of. However, if you have experience with fixing shingles, make sure you have the right tools for the job and get to work sooner rather than later.
“What I always recommend to my customers, is to walk the perimeter of the roof and do a visual inspection after EVERY storm that had high winds. Looking for any shingles or vents that may have blown off during the storm.”
Jordan Woolf | Roofer in Huntsville, Al.
Keep up to Date with TLC
Regular maintenance will help your roofing materials last for a long time. The general rule is, if you see some problems, deal with them straight away. Don’t put off the maintenance because you could end up with more significant and costly issues.
Regularly conduct visual inspections, clean any debris, and gutters. Check the flashings to make sure they are secure and not showing any signs of corrosion. You should also check the attics and ceilings to see if there are any signs of leaks or structural issues. In many cases, early identification of a problem can lead to more manageable and cheaper solutions. However, if the maintenance gets neglected for long periods of time, you could end up with a leak or a nasty energy bill.
If you’re ever in doubt about the condition of your roof, it would be a good idea to contact a roofing contractor for advice.
