Most people don’t think about their roofing materials very often. In fact, most people ignore their roofs until a problem (like a leak) pops up.
But as a homeowner, there are a few simple maintenance tasks you should perform to keep your roof performing the way it should. When you take care of your roof, you can prolong its lifespan – and prevent problems that will eventually lead to a complete roof replacement project.
5 Roof Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Taking good care of your roof pays big dividends. Use these five roof maintenance tips to keep your home’s first line of defense in great shape:
- Trim your trees.
- Clean leaves and debris from your gutters.
- Check your roof ventilation.
- Watch for shingle damage.
- Get an annual roof inspection.
#1. Trim Your Trees
Keep an eye on the trees close to your home. If branches can reach your roof, you have to trim them. During inclement weather, the branches can move and damage your shingles – or worse, snap off and land on your roof. Tree branches can do tremendous (and expensive) damage.
#2. Clean Leaves and Debris From Your Gutters
Leaves and debris can clog your gutters quickly. While that’s not generally a problem when it’s dry outside, it can be a huge problem when it rains or when snow melts from your roof. Clogged gutters can force water to back up against your house. Water can even force its way into your attic or behind your fascia boards (the part of the roof that’s just below your shingles, where your gutter is mounted).
#3. Check Your Roof Ventilation
A good roof is built to breathe, bringing in cooler air and forcing out heated, damp air. If heat and moisture build up in your attic or beneath your roofing materials, your roof is subject to rot, mold and a whole host of other problems. Head into your attic and:
- Make sure the air temperature inside is about the same as it is outside
- Look for mold spots
- Watch for frost when it’s cold outside
If you have ice dams on your roof during winter, that’s another sign that your roof may not be properly vented.
Related: What homeowners need to know about roof ventilation
#4. Watch for Shingle Damage
Keep an eye on your roof from the ground. If you see missing, cracked, damaged or broken shingles, you need to hire a professional roofing contractor to fix or replace them. Also watch for shingle granules when you’re cleaning out your gutters, because those granules are what protect your roof from the elements.
Related: 6 signs you need a roof replacement
#5. Get an Annual Roof Inspection
You should have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year and after every major storm. A professional roof inspector will be able to get on top of your roof, search for problems and zero in on what’s causing the issues. If your roof is damaged, your inspector can tell you what needs to be done to fix it. When you catch roof problems while they’re small, you can usually save yourself thousands of dollars in roof repair and replacement costs; that’s why it makes sense to have your roof inspected every year.
Do You Need a Free Roof Inspection?
If it’s been a while since your last roof inspection, take a moment to schedule one with us today. It’s completely free, and we’ll find a time that works for you.