Have you been on your roof lately? You probably haven’t been unless you’re a teenager jumping into the pool. That is NOT a recommendation, by the way! If you haven’t checked out your roof lately, then it’s time because roofs require maintenance. This blog will discuss 4 tips for roof maintenance. If you have a roof, which you obviously do, then learning about roof maintenance is an important part of home ownership. We highly recommend you explore these tips, then give us a call if you need some help.
Roof maintenance is not difficult, and it is important. 4 tips for keeping your roof in good condition are getting a yearly roof inspection, keeping nearby trees trimmed, removing debris from your roof, and checking your downspouts. These simple tips can keep your roof looking great and prolong the life of your roof.
When you got a new roof, you may have thought, “Cool. Now I don’t have to worry about that for another 30 years.” Hopefully, you’re right, but unfortunately, you’re probably not. First, roofs require maintenance to prevent the need for replacement. All roofs eventually need replacing, but you can prolong the life of your roof with proper maintenance. Second, 30 years is a long time, and your roof will likely sustain some type of damage or need a repair prior to its replacement. Let’s take a look at 4 tips to keep your roof in tip-top shape!
#1 Get a Yearly Roof Inspection
If you are physically capable, you can climb up on your roof to inspect for any noticeable areas in need of repair. However, it is dangerous to be up on a roof. Additionally, trained roofing experts know what signs to look for to detect potential problems. If you have an asphalt shingle roof, for example, it is covered with granules. Those granules protect your shingles and all that lies beneath them. A roofing contractor knows how to determine if too many of your granules are missing, requiring some new shingles or a re-roof. So, while a yearly visual inspection done by you is definitely better than nothing, a yearly inspection done by a roofing professional is even better.
#2 Keep Trees Trimmed
We know this blog is about roof maintenance, not yard maintenance, but in this case, the two go hand in hand. Large overhanging branches are a hazard to the life of your roof, as well as your safety. Trees are beautiful, and their shade is a welcome relief to the hot Florida sun. Just make sure your trees are trimmed regularly to prevent large limbs from hanging over your roof. Hurricanes love to knock those off right onto your roof! We don’t have to tell you that it can cause major damage to your roof and endanger everyone inside. Also, once your roof is compromised during a storm, water can then enter your home causing further damage. If a neighbor’s tree overhangs your roof, you should ask if they can get it trimmed. If money is an issue, you may want to offer to pay for it because it will be less expensive than the potential damage to your home.
#3 Remove Debris from Your Roof
When you clean up after a storm and have that nice six-foot tall pile of debris neatly stacked at the curb, you may look around your yard feeling satisfied with a job well done. Don’t forget to check your roof! If you are unable to climb a ladder, then hire someone who can. Clearing debris from your roof after a storm is important because if it stays up there, particularly piled up in one area, it can cause long-term dampness leading to possible mold or rot which can cause damage to the roof. Keep your roof clean.
#4 Check Your Downspouts
This tip is particularly important for those of you living in a 2-story home, but it applies to all homes. Your gutters and downspouts are designed to catch rainwater and send it to the ground so it doesn’t pool on your roof where it can cause damage. Long downspouts often consist of more than one piece fitted together. Make sure they are intact. If not, you may have water running onto your roof. It will usually take the same approximate path, meaning it will continually flow along the same shingles and wear down your roof.
Summary
Keeping a well-maintained roof over your head protects your home and your family. Getting a yearly inspection, keeping nearby trees trimmed, removing debris from your roof, and checking your downspouts are 4 key tips to maintaining the integrity of your roof. If you live in the Melbourne, FL or Merritt Island, FL areas, then you have roofing experts nearby ready to assist with any of your roofing needs! Seal Tight Roofing Experts offers roofing estimates, performs roof inspections, repairs roofs, and can reroof your home or building! If you are looking for a roofing company, look no further than Seal Tight Roofing Experts. We are committed to quality, honesty, and respect. We look forward to serving you and adding you to our list of satisfied customers.
