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Being a homeowner, it can be daunting to understand the proper way to maintain your roof. Regardless of the type of roof your house has, you can guarantee its longevity by properly caring for and maintaining it. By committing to regular roof inspections and maintenance, you can avoid the need for major repairs caused by water leaks or other issues, and potentially even the premature replacement of your entire roof.
These tips for roof care will aid in preserving the expected lifespan of your roof.
Carefully Examine Shingles Every Season
Every season has its own set of challenges that are specific to the weather patterns characteristic of that time. The hot and humid months bring the risk of sun damage and potential damage from hurricanes, while the cold winter months can result in snow storms and potential leaks due to melting ice and snow. It is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of your roofing materials, including shingles, every season.
Check for any signs of excessive wear or damage, and take note of any missing shingles that need to be replaced. Examine the caulk around the flashing and vent pipes for any signs of damage. If you notice any areas covered in moss or lichen, it could indicate decay underneath the shingles. It is important to address any issues immediately to prevent small problems from turning into larger, more expensive repairs.
Annual Treatment for Moss, Lichen, and Algae
The growth of moss, lichen, and algae on your roof can cause significant damage and make it look unappealing. This is usually seen in shady parts of the roof during the warmer months. To get rid of these growths, it is recommended to hire a professional for roof cleaning.
After cleaning and drying the roof, applying preventive products containing zinc and copper can prevent the regrowth of moss, lichen, and algae. These products, when used annually, effectively prevent the growth of any substances on the shingles.
Keep Your Gutters Clean and Well-Maintained
Proper maintenance of your gutters is essential as they play a crucial role in protecting your roof from water and debris. To enable them to function effectively, it is important to regularly remove any leaves, sticks, or other obstructions.
In case your house is not surrounded by trees, it is recommended to clean your gutters at least twice a year. However, if you live in an area like North Carolina where hurricanes occur frequently or have trees near your property, it is advisable to clean your gutters every three months to ensure their proper functioning.
Regularly Clean Your Roof by Removing Leaves and Debris
Regularly checking and promptly removing any debris from your roof can help protect your home from potential damage and prevent the growth of moss, lichen, and algae. While gutters may catch some leaves and debris, heavy storms can still deposit debris on your roof. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect and clear your roof of any debris.
Remove Overhanging Branches Near Your Roofline
Regularly trimming the branches of large trees near your residence, particularly those that overhang your roof, can shield your property from harm caused by falling debris and accumulation of debris.
Severe weather conditions and natural calamities such as hurricanes and tornadoes can result in tree limbs breaking and potentially causing damage to your roof. It is advisable to inspect the growth of tree branches around your house every year to identify when they may require trimming.
Renew Caulk Around Flashings as Necessary
To prevent water from seeping into your house, your roof is equipped with flashing around the chimney and vent pipes. To guarantee the effectiveness of this flashing in preventing water leaks, it is recommended to annually inspect and renew the caulk. As part of the inspection, it is important to check for any missing or raised caulk in the designated areas. If any issues are found, the old caulk should be removed and replaced with a new layer to fill any gaps.
Make Sure Your Attic is Properly Insulated
During the winter season, a lack of insulation can lead to melting snow and ice accumulating on your roof. This can cause water to freeze around the shingles, resulting in an ice dam that prevents proper drainage from the gutters. This rapid melting process can cause significant harm to the roof and shingles. To avoid this, it is important to have adequate insulation in your attic to prevent heat from escaping through the roof. Installing high-quality insulation, such as R-49 and R-60, in the attic space will effectively prevent this problem.
Comprehend the Effects of Sun Exposure on Your Roof
Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause considerable damage to your roof. In regions with excessive sunlight, roofing materials are constantly exposed to intense UV rays which heat them up and deplete their protective oils. On the other hand, lack of sunlight can increase the likelihood of moss, algae, and lichen growth. By comprehending the influence of sunlight, or lack thereof, on your roof’s condition, you can collaborate with a roofing specialist to minimize these effects.
Let Our Trusted Professionals Handle All of Your Maintenance and Repair Needs
It takes a professional to determine whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. As a homeowner, the wisest decision you can make for your roof maintenance is to rely on a professional who specializes in residential roofing. There are numerous advantages to trusting a professional with your home, but perhaps the most significant is the peace of mind it brings.
Roofing experts are highly skilled and knowledgeable individuals who are familiar with different types of roofs and keep meticulous records of their work. This assures that regardless of your roof type, the professionals will have the necessary expertise and knowledge to keep it in good condition.
At American Frontier Roofing, our focus is on Design, Craft, and Renewal. With our extensive experience in various roofing systems, we offer expert roofing design and meticulous craftsmanship to restore our customers’ assets. We welcome customers who prioritize sustainable building to contact us for a complimentary evaluation.
Our services cover both residential and commercial properties, including custom architectural metal fabrication and historical renovation.