Roofs are an expensive investment with numerous security and ornamental purposes. With proper maintenance and care, most roofing materials can last for about 20 years. However, some factors such as selecting the wrong material, improper installation, and ignoring routine practices can reduce the lifespan.
After installing a roof, it is essential to take good care of it to enhance the security of your home and protect your investment. Here, we discuss eight tips to help you maintain this structure to prevent premature damage and extend its lifespan.
1. Regular Cleaning
The accumulation of dirt and debris on your roof can cause moisture retention and damage roofing material. For instance, it can rot roofing shingles and tiles made from wood. It also encourages the growth of moss which makes the surface heavy and increases the risk of collapsing.
It is advisable to get professional roof cleaning at least once per year or whenever you identify significant discoloration. This measure will allow you to get rid of debris and prevent damages.
2. Trimming Trees
Trees with branches that hang over your home can cause damage during windstorms. They also allow rodents that can gnaw on your roof like squirrels to access it. If there are any tree branches less than ten feet from your home, trim them regularly to extend your roof’s lifespan. You can also wrap metal sheets around the tree trunks to prevent animals from climbing and jumping on your rooftop.
3. Professional Roof Inspection
Most homeowners avoid professional roof inspections to cut down on maintenance costs. However, getting these services will allow you to determine if there is an issue with your roof. The expert can then help you fix the damage and recommend other ways to protect the structure. Eventually, you will prevent secondary damage and save money that would otherwise go into extensive repair or installing a new roof.
4. Getting Rid of Ice Dams
Ice and snow put extra weight on a roof and sometimes cause breakage if they stay for an extended period. Besides that, they cause temperature changes that may strain the roofing material and cause thermal shock.
You can use a long scraper or road salt and water to remove ice on your roof during cold weather. If the chunks are big, contact an expert for professional removal services to avoid damaging your home.
5. Removing Mold
If your roof is in the shade, it may retain water during rainy seasons and encourage mold growth. These fungi can stain the surface and eat it up, causing premature wear and tear. Always watch out for signs of mold infestation, such as a musty odor and leakage, to enhance the lifespan of your roof.
After that, consult a professional to determine the most effective mold removal technique for your roofing material.
6. Proper Insulation
The lack of proper insulation exposes your roof to heat, causing it to age faster. So, ventilate your home and confirm that all air vents are in good working condition to prevent trapping hot air. Besides, install insulation material to reflect away sunlight and slow down aging.
7. Observing Your Roof
Most people rarely check their roofs unless they find a broken shingle or identify a leak. However, inspecting it, especially after a hail or windstorm, will allow you to determine if there is a problem.
Walk around your home and use binoculars to check for cracks on the roof, chimney, or flashing. Furthermore, look out for curled or missing shingles, discoloration, moss presence, and sagging on the sides.
8. Replacing Shingles
Roofing shingles can crack and break due to improper installation or exposure to harsh weather. Once you identify a missing or faulty shingle, hire a professional to inspect the entire surface and conduct the needed repairs. By taking this step, you will rectify minor issues before they escalate and cause leakage or significant damage.
Contact Absolute Construction for Roof Maintenance
Taking proper care of your roof will make it last longer and safeguard your home. At Absolute Construction, we offer reliable roof maintenance services in Texas, Kansas, and Missouri. We also conduct inspections to help you identify and deal with various types of damage. Reach out to us today for professional roof maintenance services.