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As a homeowner, you know that your home is like another member of the family; the more care and attention you give it, the better and healthier it will be.
Unfortunately, home care can get expensive, especially when it involves major components such as your roof. Depending on the size and style, a roof replacement can cost tens of thousands of dollars!
Luckily, roofs are designed to last. Even the most inexpensive residential roofing system will last around 20 years. And if you have a few roof maintenance tips to follow, it can last even longer!
If you’re looking for ways to make your roof last as long as possible, you’ve come to the right place. To learn everything you need to know about maintaining a roof, just keep reading.
1. Trim Your Trees
One of the most effective means of caring for a roof is also the simplest – all you have to do is trim your trees! Low-hanging branches scratch your roof’s protective layer, increasing the likelihood of water leaks and weather damage.
In addition, larger branches can loosen shingles, causing them to detach over time. And, of course, a heavy branch falling on your roof is never a good thing.
Now, be careful not to damage your trees, either. Remove only the tips of branches that come within 6 feet of your roof to avoid injuring the tree.
2. Clean Your Gutters
No one looks forward to cleaning their gutters, but thankfully, you only need to do it a few times a year.
If your yard is mostly free of trees and vegetation, twice a year is enough. Those who live in a wooded area should aim for seasonal gutter cleaning, or four times a year.
Cleaning your gutters protects your roof from water overflow, which exposes the shingles to a high level of moisture and organic debris. Though water and leaves might sound harmless to you, they wreak havoc on your roof!
3. Remove Debris
Speaking of organic debris, keep an eye out for leaves, twigs, and other yard debris that can accumulate on the roof. It’s more likely to build up in valleys and around roof ornaments such as chimneys and skylights, so give these areas the most attention.
Pro tip: when you’re cleaning your roof, don’t use a power washer. These are too strong for the shingles and will do more harm than good. Instead, use a leaf blower or a soft broom in the direction of the shingles to gently remove the debris.
4. Check for Plants
While you’re on the roof checking for pine straw and leaves, look for moss and other plant growth as well. Plantlife, but particularly moss and algae, is extremely harmful to your roof.
Left untreated, you’ll be calling a company specializing in roof restorations rather than simply cleaning the moss off yourself.
If you find that moss is a common occurrence, consider hiring a professional roof cleaner. They can make maintaining a roof much easier by treating it with preventative products.
5. Inspect Your Attic
Last but not least, you should inspect your attic on a regular basis. The two main things to look for are proper ventilation and water damage.
Signs of poor ventilation include damaged insulation, heat damage, and mildew in the attic. With water damage, you’ll notice discoloration, moisture, or puddles.
If you see any of these signs, you need to call a roofer as soon as possible to make repairs and prevent further damage.
Keep Your Home Healthy With These Roof Maintenance Tips
No matter the size of your house or the home roofing system you choose, a roof is a big investment! By using these roof maintenance tips, you’re protecting that investment, lengthening the lifespan of your roof, and keeping the rest of your home protected in the process.
Looking for more tips and tricks for keeping your home in top shape? Be sure to check out our blog!
