Roof Maintenance Tips You Should Be Aware Of
Your roof is a significant investment so you want to make sure that it lasts as long as possible. Maintenance is a key part of extending the life of your roof, just as it is for your auto or any other important item. Learn the most important roof maintenance tips so you can maximize the lifespan of your roof and reduce the risk of issues when the next storm sweeps on by.
Take Care Of Nearby Trees
Roof maintenance extends to everything near the roof in addition to the structure itself, with trees being particularly important. If a tree or its branches get too close to your roof, this can put it at a serious risk of damage the next time there are strong winds or a heavy rainstorm. Avoid broken branches smashing into your roof and damaging it by keeping them trimmed back. Anytime you notice branches getting too close to the roof, trim them to protect the structure.
Clean The Gutters
Most homeowners dread cleaning the gutters, but this is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to roof maintenance. If you let fallen leaves, branches, and other debris sit in the gutters, they will clog the system. That clog will, in turn, lead to a backup of water that can lead to flooding on the roof or even the rooms underneath it. Ideally, you should clean the gutters at least twice each year. While you are up on the roof, look around for other problematic debris.
Check The Shingles Annually
Your roof’s shingles are its first line of defense against the elements, which means that they will be subject to a great deal of wear and tear. Multiple issues, many of them related to nature, can cause shingles to become damaged, loose, or even fall off. A missing shingle will leave your roof structure exposed, putting you at risk of expensive damage. To avoid this problem, take the time at least once a year to inspect your roof and pay close attention to the shingles. If you do not feel comfortable climbing on your roof, hire a roofing contractor to complete an annual inspection.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
For your roof to thrive, it must be able to breathe. If your roof does not have enough ventilation, moisture and heat can lead to rot on the rafting and sheathing. This leads to buckling roof materials and ineffective insulation. One of the best methods of ensuring your roof gets enough ventilation is to install proper installation. Any roofing contractor will tell you that there should be a gap-free layer with insulation on your attic floor plus a vapor retarder underneath the insulation by the ceiling. You should also ensure there are vented and open spaces that air can freely pass through, with a minimum of an inch separating the roof sheathing and insulation. From a maintenance perspective, take the time at least once a year to ensure that the roof still seems to be getting enough ventilation. Your roofer can check this during their regular inspection
