Did you know a home’s roof can last up to 20-25 years? That is an impressive lifespan considering your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements all year round! The roof of your home is incredibly durable but needs some help to stay in top shape. From routine inspections and repairs to simply removing debris, no preventative action is too small. Here are a few ways you can extend the lifespan of your roof!
Be Safe About Inspections
As we say often, it is vital to have your roof inspected by a professional at least once every year. Before and after severe weather is also advisable. Inspections help catch damage that may not be easily seen when viewing from the ground. While inspecting your roof yourself is possible, we recommend having a trusted, licensed, and insured professional take a look. This ensures your safety and guarantees that any issues, no matter how minor, don’t get overlooked.
Cleaning Your Roof
One key step to aid in the health of your roof is to simply keep it clean. Debris, like leaves and tree branches, is almost inevitable. Branches can scratch or dislodge shingles while leaves can block water flow. This is especially true when it comes to your gutters. Gutters clogged by leaves and other debris could prevent water from draining properly from your roof. Excess water is dangerous for the health of your roof and home because it can lead to leaks, rotting, mold, and numerous other issues. You can take care of this job yourself, but we highly recommend utilizing a professional roof cleaning service.
Repairing Damaged Shingles
If you see damaged or missing shingles, you should call your roofing contractor immediately. Your shingles are the outermost element covering and protecting your roof. When these are vulnerable or missing completely, this endangers your roof leaving your home’s safety at risk. If you are unsure of the current state of your shingles, it is better to be safe and call a professional for an inspection as soon as possible.
Winter Related Issues
As Michiganders, we are no strangers to harsh winter weather. While gearing up for the upcoming cold months, we want to make sure you keep an especially close eye on your roof during the winter months. From ice dams to attic condensation to patches of melted snow, there is plenty to be on the lookout for during snow days and extreme temperature drops. We have a blog that covers what roof damage signs to look for during winter and recommend reading through it to stay prepared this year.
Other Preventative Measures
We’ve established that regular inspections and cleaning are best for the health of your roof, but there are other preventative measures you can take as well. When it comes to your attic, proper insulation and ventilation are crucial in removing excess heat, moisture, and energy costs from your home. Another measure to consider would be trimming any trees near your home. Falling leaves, branches, limbs, and even trees altogether can cause serious damage to your roof and home, especially if they hang over your home already. Again, for your safety, we recommend reaching out to a professional tree trimmer to take care of this job.
Remember, a well-maintained roof not only protects your home but can also save you money in the long run. Taking proactive steps to care for your roof will ensure its longevity. While regular inspections and timely repairs are essential, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted roofer if you have any questions or concerns. We’ll be happy to help if you want to know more about maintaining the health of your roof!
Sources:
https://www.angi.com/articles/how-extend-life-your-roof.htm
https://todayshomeowner.com/roofing/guides/4-tips-to-extend-your-roofs-life/
