Keeping your roof in excellent condition maximizes its lifespan and ensures your home is well protected from the elements. Investing in your roof’s upkeep will save you time and money. Addressing potential issues will safeguard the long-term durability and function of your roof over its lifespan.
Here are some simple tips that will make roof maintenance a breeze, keep your house looking great, and safeguard it from the greater Memphis area’s diverse weather.
Maximize the Lifespan and Performance of Your Roof with Proper Maintenance
1. Keep tree branches trimmed away from your roof.
If nearby trees have branches that are in proximity to your asphalt shingles, have them professionally trimmed to prevent roof damage. If branches brush up against your shingles repeatedly, you’ll risk early aging of roofing components, and may incur damage as a result. Tree branches can also break off and impact your shingles during high-wind events, so keep your trees well-groomed and you’ll avoid problems.
2. Clean your gutters once or twice a year.
Gutters are so small they can tend to go unnoticed, but it’s vital that you keep them well maintained in order to safeguard your roof from leaks. If gutters get clogged up with leaves, twigs, and other debris, rather than channeling water away from your house, they’ll cause moisture to seep into your roof decking and create damage that could have been avoided. Add gutter guards to your existing gutters to prevent debris from clogging them.
3. Inspect your attic for leaks.
After a storm, grab a flashlight and assess your attic for leaks. If you notice wet insulation, wood rot, or mold, contact a reputable roofer to have your roof inspected. It’s much simpler and less costly to catch any moisture issues in your attic while they are small rather than allowing them to fester and multiply.
4. Deal with moss and algae growth that shows up on your roof.
The appearance of moss or algae growth on your roof can be unsightly and greatly hinder your curb appeal. It can also weaken your shingles and cause them to age faster. If you notice moss or algae on your roof, contact a roofing professional. Have them clear away the growth and treat your roof to hinder its reappearance.
5. Ensure your roof is properly ventilated.
Keeping your roof well maintained will ensure it can “breathe” adequately. The summer heat and precipitation can wreak havoc on your roof’s components if you don’t have proper ventilation. Check your attic spaces to ensure airflow is not blocked from insulation, stored items, or insect hives. Verify your soffit screens are free of debris and paint so air can flow freely.
Contact a reputable roofer and have your ventilation evaluated. If more is needed, installing more vents will contribute to the longevity and performance of your roofing components.
Pro tip: Moist air from dryers and bathrooms must be channeled out of your home through proper vents. If you have an older home, ensure fans aren’t venting into your attic or crawlspace. Warm, humid air in an attic or crawlspace can cause unhealthy mold issues.
How Often Should I Have My Roof Inspected?
Inspect your roof yourself regularly.
Each spring and fall, as well as after any major storms, hail, or wintery weather, take a close look at your roof and its components by inspecting it yourself. You may wonder, how? Grab a pair of binoculars and take a close look at the condition of your asphalt shingles. Look for any visible damage such as loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Check for broken or sagging gutters. Also, if you notice a pile of asphalt granules is dumped out of your downspout after a storm, then your shingles are wearing down and becoming less effective due to the loss.
Next, go into your attic and look for any signs of roof issues, such as roof leaks. Additionally, if you spot water marks on the ceilings of your highest floor’s rooms, you have a roof leak that should be addressed. If you see anything that concerns you while inspecting your roof or attic, contact a roofing contractor to have it professionally inspected.
Because of the danger involved in walking on your roof, it’s best to inspect it from the safety of the ground and leave the roof walking for the pros. Plus, it’s smart to keep foot traffic as low as possible to prevent shingles from wearing out faster or becoming damaged.
While inspecting your roof, keep an eye out for small warning signs that it’s nearing the time to schedule a roof replacement. If you’re unsure if your roof needs repairs or replacement, a professional inspection will give you the information necessary to move forward with confidence.
Get a professional inspection at least annually.
In addition to your DIY inspections, contact a trusted roofing professional (like us!) to have it assessed each year. A roofer will detect potential problems that may go unnoticed by the untrained eye.
Contractors can spot early signs of damage like weakened flashing, compromised shingles, or hidden leaks. If left unattended, these could lead to major damage, costly repairs, and possibly even an earlier roof replacement. You’ll rest at ease that your roof is in pristine condition when small issues that pop up are dealt with to prevent bigger ones.
Unlock Your Home’s Beauty with an Eye-Catching New Roof
Now that you’ve learned how simple it is to keep your current roof in excellent shape, you’re equipped to ensure it performs well for its expected lifetime. As you care for your roof, if you have any concerns, a professional roof inspection can uncover any issues.
At Bluff City Exteriors, we are an Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor, giving you peace of mind that your roof is installed with precision. Learn more about how our roofing services can help unlock the full potential of your exterior’s beauty with an attractive, low-maintenance new roof.
