Regular roof maintenance is one of the most important and cost-effective home improvement tasks. Timely maintenance can help your roof system last longer, address roof problems while they’re easy to tackle, and save you a lot of money.
At Authentic Restoration, a premier roofing company, we handle all types of roof maintenance, repair, replacement, and installation projects in select cities in Alabama, Indiana, and North Carolina. Call us 833-318-7663 for a free roofing project quote.
Today, our roofing experts share 10 tips that will help you keep your roof in top condition for as long as possible.
1. Ensure Proper Attic Ventilation
Roof vents and fans can improve airflow and ventilation in your attic. A well-ventilated attic is crucial to maintaining your roof in prime condition.
Hot air trapped in the attic can cause asphalt shingles to overheat and deteriorate before the end of their lifespan. Furthermore, improper ventilation may invalidate any manufacturer warranties.
2. Clean Your Gutters
Clean, unclogged gutters help ensure proper rainwater drainage and prevent water pooling on the roof. Leaves, sticks, branches, and other debris can all block gutters.
If your gutters are easily accessible, you may clean them yourself using a secure ladder. Otherwise, opt for professional gutter cleaning and maintenance.
3. Check for Signs of Water Damage After Storms
Inspect your roof and attic after any storm or extreme weather event. Pay attention to leaks, weak shingles, mold, and any other signs of water damage. Prompt repair can prevent a minor leak or moisture problem from becoming a major structural issue.
4. Trim Surrounding Branches
Trees around your house provide valuable shade, but uncontrolled overgrowth that reaches beyond your roof can litter the roof surface with leaves, sticks, and branches that may clog your gutters and cause other types of damage. Keep any overreaching branches trimmed, and cut off weak tree limbs that may detach in a storm and hit your roof.
5. Remove Leaves and Debris
Flying leaves, pine needles, and trash might all lodge on your roof. Even if this unwanted debris doesn’t reach your gutters, it can cause water ponding or encourage pests to nest on the roof.
If you can’t safely access your roof to remove debris yourself, your roofing contractor can do this as part of your regular roof maintenance.
6. Treat Moss and Algae
Moss, algae, and lichens do more than give your roof an unsightly appearance – these types of plant overgrowth can lift shingles and cause significant damage.
Professional cleaning can remove any greenery from your roof, and installing a copper or zinc strip can mitigate plant growth since these metals are toxic to moss and algae.
7. Remove Icicles and Ice Dams
Ice dams, icicles, and snow buildup can damage your roof and gutters. Large icicles may also endanger people or animals as they fall. To melt ice safely, use calcium chloride or hire a contractor that uses specialized steaming equipment.
8. Take Care of Roof Flashing
Flashing is a critical part of your roofing system. Vents, chimney openings, skylights, and exhaust fans are all prone to leaking. These structures have a cover of thin flashing that may eventually corrode or lose its shape. A roofing contractor can seal or replace old flashing.
9. Work With Reputable Contractors
Whenever you need a roof maintenance job, make sure you choose an experienced, reputable local contractor with solid recommendations. A trusted contractor will produce optimal results and protect your family’s safety during all roofing projects. A roofing professional is also likelier to notice systemic issues that threaten your roof’s integrity.
10. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
At a minimum, you should schedule a professional roof inspection and maintenance once a year. It is best to get your roof inspection in the fall to address any issues before the winter. We also recommend scheduling a spring inspection, especially if you’ve had a rough winter with heavy storms or lots of snow.
Quality Roof Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement
Investing in roof maintenance pays dividends with fewer roof repairs and a healthier, longer-lasting roof system. An annual roof inspection by our team at Authentic Restoration will alert you to any potential roof issues, protect your home’s structural integrity, and preserve your property’s value.
Call our Authentic Restoration team at 833-318-7663 for a roof quote in Birmingham, AL, Raleigh or Rocky Mount, NC, or Indianapolis, IN.
