Your roof serves multiple functions. It adds aesthetic and curb appeal and it’s the first line of defense for storm damage to your home. New roofs are also a huge financial investment. It makes sense then, that you’d want to eke out as much longevity as you can. Fortunately, roofs are fairly low maintenance, and a few simple maintenance steps can drastically increase the lifespan of your roof.
Take Care of Gutters
Although your gutters are not part of the roof itself, they’re an extremely important part of the roofing system. Gutters direct waterflow from precipitation off the roof and away from the house. They also catch debris and leaves that fall onto the roof. Gutters should be cleaned regularly to prevent blockages and ensure proper function. It’s also a good idea to inspect them at least once a year to make sure they’re properly attached to the home and to fill in any gaps or holes with caulk.
Keep Trees Trimmed
Keeping trees trimmed offers a huge benefit to your roof. Tree branches that hang over the roof can rub against it damaging shingles and shaking them loose. These branches also have a chance of breaking off and falling onto the roof during storms and high winds causing damage to the roof, chimneys, and skylights. Falling limbs can also be dangerous, so keeping trees trimmed back protects both your home and its inhabitants.
Keep Roof Surface Clean
Roofs with a lot of vegetation cover or are in moist climates are susceptible to fungal growth. While this growth will not cause massive damage quickly, it can build up overtime and cause damage in the long run. Clean growth off the roof surface regularly, or hire a company to clean it for you to prevent this type of damage.
Ventilation and Insulation
Whether your attic has living space or not it’s vital that it has proper insulation and ventilation. Consistent airflow within the attic helps regulate temperatures which prevents your shingles from getting excessively hot. It also prevents moisture build up in the attic space that could result in mold, rot, and other structural problems.
Professional Inspection
Most roofing companies will offer a free inspection for damage. If you believe your roof has damage or a big storm has come through, call and get it checked out. The sooner it gets taken care of the less problems the damage will cause.