What is a home usually associated with? A shelter? Having a “roof over your head?” All these associations seem to point towards the fact that the roof is an integral part of a home. Without the room, the walls, interior, front porch, backyard, don’t really matter.
Why is the roof so important? Well, mainly because it is often the first line of defense your house has against the elements. But, let’s be honest, no one really thinks of the roof until you notice a leak. By the time the water has dripped all the way through the ceiling, you are looking at much more costly repairs than if you would have simply maintained the roof on time.
With a little extra care, you can definitely extend your roof’s life by decades!
1. Regular Inspections
Roofs don’t disintegrate overnight. Small issues tend to pile up. These can be as small as a lifted shingle or a clogged gutter. Try to get your roof inspected at least twice a year, once in the spring and then in the fall.
Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear which include missing shingles, cracks, moss growth, or sagging areas. These are the earliest warning signs of a disintegrating roof. Issues can also manifest themselves within the attic. In fact, many roofing problems show up inside first. Check for water stains, mold, or daylight coming through the roof boards. Nip these issues in the bud.
Make sure you keep tree branches trimmed and at least 10 feet away from your roof. Trees situated too close to your home can let in squirrels and racoons that chew on shingles, vents, or wiring. The tree itself can scrape against the shingles and remove much-needed protective layers.
2. Clean Gutters
Gutters play a very important role in keeping your roof moisture-free. When they are clogged up with leaves, dirt, debris, or with water that has backed up and seeped under your shingles, rot and leaks will soon follow.
It is ideal if you plan to clean your gutters every few months, especially following heavy storms or when leaves pile up in the file. While you are at it, check that downspouts direct the water at least five feet away from your foundation. Water pooling near your home can often lead to flooded basements and cracked foundations. With gutter guards in place, you can essentially minimize the buildup of debris. This means you don’t have to clean that often!
3. Preventative Measures Against Moss and Algae
Moss and algae are the silent roof killers. They don’t just look bad; they wreak havoc on your roof’s materials. Moss retains moisture and worsens already existing rot while algae weaken the shingles, making your roof absorb much more heat. Your energy systems are going to be working overtime!
If you spot green patches at any point, act fast. A simple solution of equal parts water and bleach sprayed on and rinsed off after 15 minutes should be enough to kill these growths without damaging your roof.
To protect against any future infestations consider installing zinc or copper strips near the roof’s peak so that when it rains the metal ions wash down, preventing growth of moss and algae.
Regular Maintenance = Elongated Roof Life
Your roof doesn’t need your constant attention. However, regularly maintaining it which includes cleaning the gutters, preventing moss formation, trimming the trees around it, and investing in quick repairs as problems arise can definitely extend your roof life. Invest in professional Chester roofing experts if you want the job done right!
