As a homeowner, you’ve likely learned that routine maintenance is key to preventing expensive repairs for many aspects of your home. The roof is no exception, and it requires the completion of regular tasks to keep it at peak performance.
Roof maintenance prevents damage to your roof and prolongs its useful life – allowing you to get more benefit from your investment. However, it can be difficult to know which tasks to complete, when to do them, and how to stay safe while maintaining your roof. We have summarized this information below to help you get the most from your roof.
Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected Annually
The most important task you can complete to keep your roof in good condition is to have it inspected each year. A qualified roofer will evaluate the safety of your roof and inform you of any potential hazards. Then, you can perform the maintenance tasks they recommend and complete small repairs as they are needed to keep your roof safe and strong.
Keep Gutters Functional, Clean, and Free of Debris
Gutters add obvious aesthetic appeal to your home, but you may not have considered the other essential functions that they serve. They direct water away from vulnerable places like the foundation, exterior walls, and landscaping. Additionally, gutters protect your roof from standing water.
To perform these vital functions, gutters need to remain clean and intact. Clogs in your gutters trap water and can lead to overflow – which jeopardizes your home, roof, and landscaping. Additionally, broken gutters often leak, which prevents them from moving water to designated downspouts and leads to spillage down the sides of your home.
You can typically spot gutter issues from the ground, so there is no reason to put yourself in danger by climbing on the roof. Instead, walk around your home and look for broken or sagging pieces, visible overflow of debris, or wet patches on walls.
You should also have your gutters cleaned at least every six months by an insured professional. Most homeowners choose to have these cleanings performed in the spring and fall when debris is most likely to accumulate. Alternatively, you can invest in gutter guards to minimize the need for cleanings.
Keep Your Roof Clean
Yard debris can damage your roof if left for an extended period. Sticks and limbs that have fallen onto your roof move with the wind – which causes shingles to shift and removes the protective granules. Leaves also cause damage by acting as a sponge that holds water against the roof, damaging shingles and leading to leaks.
To protect your roof from damage, hire a professional to trim branches that touch your roof, or deposit leaves and sticks onto it. You should also have your roof cleaned to remove smaller debris and dirt that can accumulate. The professional you use to clean your roof should not employ power washing, as a concentrated spray of water removes protective granules and can cause shingles to move from their original position. Due to these risks, pressure washing your roof could also void your warranty.
Complete Visual Inspections Regularly and After Storms
Make a habit to perform a visual inspection of your roof on a regular basis – such as monthly – as well as after storms. Prolonged exposure to sun and wind can cause damage over time while storms can create immediate issues.
To recognize damage as it occurs, look for these factors while inspecting your roof:
- broken or missing shingles.
- damaged flashing (the watertight seal around chimneys and vent pipes).
- cracked or damaged soil stack (the rubberized gasket that seals some vent pipes).
- areas that remain wet or show streaks when the rest of the house is dry.
Your visual inspection should be completed from the ground to maintain your safety. If you notice any of these issues, contact a trusted roofer for a professional inspection.
Check Your Ventilation Systems
Proper roof ventilation replaces warm, humid air in your attic with cool, dry air to prevent mold and mildew. If allowed to form, these fungi can damage the roof substructure and spread throughout your home.
Locate the intake and exhaust vents in your attic and ensure that they are not blocked by insulation, stored items, or insect hives. Also, check soffit screens to ensure they are free of debris and paint.
As you are inspecting your ventilation systems, check to make sure that dryer and bathroom vents connect directly to the outside rather than your attic. Older homes sometimes have these vents connected to the attic which can lead to excess humidity.
Complete Small Repairs as Needed
No matter how much effort you put into maintaining your roof, it will likely need repairs at some point. Some of the most common repairs are replacing broken shingles, restoring damaged gutters, and addressing improper ventilation.
If repairs are left undone, they can create larger problems and reduce the useful life of your roof. On the other hand, if you complete repairs as they are needed, you can extend your roof’s lifespan and get the most value from your investment.
The roofer that you choose to complete your annual inspection and necessary repairs is vital to achieving the best results. Choose a roofer with outstanding reviews and referrals, plus the appropriate licenses and insurance. If you are on the Gulf Coast, the choice is simple – Complete Roofing.
Prolong The Useful Life of Your Roof with Complete Roofing
At Complete Roofing, we provide the roof maintenance services you need to prolong the useful life of your roof and keep your family dry. Our experienced team can inspect your roof for damage, complete repairs as needed and replace your roof when the time comes.
We offer complimentary inspections so you can remain informed about issues as they arise. If your inspection reveals issues, our friendly customer service team can also help you file an insurance claim or apply for our low-cost financing program to cover the roofing services you need.
To learn more about our services or discuss your roof, use the contact information below to reach a roofer in your area.
Installation and Repair Services for Roofs and Gutters are available in the following locations:
- Coastal Alabama Main Office with local agents in:
- Coastal Mississippi Main Office with local agents in:
- Greater New Orleans Main Office with a local agent in: