One of the biggest investments you will make as a homeowner is your roof. Roofs are the first line of defense for your home, which means they take continual beatings from the exterior world. And no matter the type of roof your home has, it will eventually need to be replaced.
But don’t be discouraged by the naysayers who tell you continual roof replacements are simply a part of homeownership. They don’t have to be. The truth is that most roofs were built to last more than 20 years. So while roof issues will occur and replacements will eventually happen, you can take special care of your roof to minimize the arrival of those issues and extend its lifespan.
Implementing the following roof care tips into your routine as a homeowner will make a significant difference in the longevity of your roof.
Immediate Roof Repairs
You’ve likely heard the saying, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.” This is a rule to live by as a homeowner, especially when it comes to your roof. The minute you notice leaks in your ceiling, lifted shingles on the roof itself, or other forms of damage, take immediate action. Waiting to repair your roof gives the outside elements an opportunity to damage your home’s interior, which is the exact thing your roof is working to protect.
Call a professional after a storm to have your roof repaired from damage that may have occurred. Taking immediate action can save you a great deal of money in larger repairs or replacements down the road.
Clear Out Gutters
Drain and divert, the two words you should associate with gutters as a homeowner. Gutters provide the most integral part of a roof’s drainage system for any sloped structure, which makes gutter care an important part of roof maintenance. As water drains off your roof and into the gutters, it is then diverted away from the home through the downspouts. But when your gutters are filled with leaves and twigs, water may begin pooling on your roof, causing damage.
Consider installing a gutter protection system to simplify gutter maintenance. We install Leaftech protection systems, the most effective gutter covers on the market.
Routinely Remove Debris
You clean your home’s interior to keep it in great shape. Your rooftop needs the same care. Dirt, leaves, twigs, moss, and algae can build up on your roof, and any one of these items can damage it. Routinely clearing the roof’s surface will help you avoid scratches and dents to the shingles and water damage to the interior. Check out our tips on removing pesky moss from your rooftop.
After strong winds or storms, it is especially important to clear debris. Be sure to take proper precautions when climbing onto your roof. Utilize the proper safety equipment and never climb onto your roof on a rainy or wet day.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Tree branches hanging over your roof leave a trail of twigs and debris. They also cast shade over its surface, which creates the perfect breeding ground for pesky moss to overtake your roof shingles. While trees provide great shade and shelter for your yard, your roof thrives best without overhanging limbs. Keeping them trimmed is a simple part of roof maintenance that will make a major difference in your roof’s lifespan.
Check Attic Insulation
Hot air rises. And the attic is the highest point in your home. Attic insulation, therefore, plays a key role in the overall insulation of your home. During winter, the last thing you desire is higher energy bills because the warm air your spent time and money filling your home with escapes through your roof. That warm air escaping your shingles can actually melt snow and cause ice dams to form on your roof, deteriorating it over time.
Attic insulation provides your home with many benefits including that it:
- Lessens moisture in the home
- Prevents the formation of ice dams
- Insulates your home’s interior
- Decreases wear and tear on your HVAC
Re-Caulk Flashes as Needed
Flashes provide protection and drainage, and broken seals can allow water to penetrate your interior, causing damage. Flashing is typically found at the edge of your roof and around chimneys or skylights, which means it lies in the direct path of water drainage. Therefore, flashes require particular inspection, and any damaged or pealing caulk should be replaced. Remove all old caulk from around the flashes before applying the new caulk.
Annual Professional Roof Inspections
A professional inspection is perhaps one of the most proactive things you can do for your roof. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to assess every inch of your roof properly. From the attic to the shingles to the flashing and gutters, professional roofers know how a functional roof should look and what issues can cost you in the long run.
Many roofers will perform a roof inspection and provide their repair suggestions free of charge. So don’t let the idea of a professional inspection intimidate you. Our American Home Contractors team is ready to inspect the ins and outs of your roof to keep it looking and performing its best, so contact our team for a free, no obligation roof inspection.
Stress-Free Roof Care That Lasts
As a homeowner, your time is too valuable to waste on being stressed over exterior maintenance. At American Home Contractors, our commitment to customer service allows you to stay on top of your exterior without the stress!
Don’t let roof repairs overwhelm you. Keep small issues from turning into the need for a full roof replacement. Check out how we can help prevent any replacements with our roof repair consultation service.
