A roof system is a big investment for homeowners, and may represent a significant portion of construction costs. It’s a roofer’s job to help the homeowner protect his or her investment by conducting thorough, careful maintenance on the roof on a regular basis. This can help ensure it’s being properly protected.
What to expect from an asphalt roof
Asphalt is one of the most popular materials used in residential roofing. In fact, statistics suggest four out of every five U.S. homes uses asphalt shingles. They look good, they’re easy to accommodate on different building styles, and they hold up well against the elements.
What causes damage to a roof?
The average roof takes a lot of abuse over its lifetime – often more than other areas of the house. Some common examples include:
- Exposure to the elements (sunlight, wind, rain, hail, snow)
- Biological growth (blue-algae, tree or plant debris)
- Poor installation technique
- Inconsistent maintenance or repairs
- Change in building use (leading to increased humidity or imbalanced ventilation)
Keep Your Roof and Gutters Clean
Don’t neglect gutter maintenance. Clogged gutters can’t drain water, and this allows moisture to seep into your home’s wood and cause rot.
Treat Plant Growth on Your Roof
Moss, algae, and lichen can grow on a roof, especially in damp or shaded areas on different roof shapes. They can trap moisture and lead to serious roof damage if not addressed.
Maintain Trees and Plants
Maintaining the landscaping around your home can also aid in roof maintenance. Trim trees and plants close to your home to prevent debris accumulation and damage from falling tree branches. Ensure tree limbs are at least 10 feet from your roof to prevent damage during storms and high winds.
Don’t Wait To Make Repairs
Addressing roof repair issues immediately is crucial in roof maintenance. Repair any roof damage immediately, no matter how minor it may seem because even small issues can escalate over time. If you notice any missing, curled, or damaged shingles, then replace them immediately to maintain the roof’s protective integrity and prevent further damage.
Make the Most of Coatings and Sealants
Hire a roofing company to apply protective coatings and sealants to your roof. Even the best roofing materials can benefit from an additional protective layer, especially slate and metal roofs.
You should also replace the caulk around flashings like chimneys and vent pipes every year to prevent leaks.
Why maintain a roof?
Even if there are no outward signs of obvious damage, every homeowner should ensure a professional regularly inspects and performs maintenance, where necessary, to a roof. Keeping it in healthy condition may protect the home. Maintenance is an investment that may pay major returns down the road.