A roof is the crown of your home and the first line of defence against harsh external elements. It should be a top priority to take good care of your roof and ensure it is in peak condition for extended service life. Here are 10 maintenance tips to keep your roof looking new.
1. Regularly inspect the attic and ceiling
One of the easiest ways to find a roof leak is by checking your attic and ceiling. If there are any signs of moisture accumulation or water penetration and damage, it should be clear that your roof’s health is deteriorating and needs to be fixed immediately.
You also need to ensure your attic has proper insulation to prevent ice dams and condensation that can cause extensive damage to your roof. Good insulation will also prevent heat loss, helping save on your energy costs.
2. Check your roof more frequently
Even with a good quality roof over your home, failing to regularly check the state of your roof will see minor issues escalating to significant damages. Make it a habit to move around your house to check for problems such as missing or curled shingles, cracks and sagging on the roof, and damages to the flashing. This way, you can pinpoint underlying problems early enough and have them fixed before it is too late.
3. Keep the gutters clean
Gutters are important in roofing as they help control moisture and ensure proper water drainage. Whenever your gutters are blocked, you risk experiencing roof decking rotting, water damage, and mould and algae build up. To prevent this, it is essential to regularly clean your gutters of any debris to have them working correctly. You should also know when to replace your gutter to avoid functionality problems caused by structural damages such as cracks, splits, and holes.
4. Clear out leaves and debris on your roof
Your roof needs to be regularly cleaned to eliminate dirt and material accumulation that causes rapid roof discoloration and creates a breeding ground for mold and algae growth. It is advisable to clean your roof once a year or every two years for newly installed roofs.
5. Eliminate ice dams
Ice dam formation on your roof is dangerous as it prevents melting snow from running off into the gutters and should be prevented at all costs. Typically, ignoring these dams ultimately leads to loose shingles, damaged gutters, rotting deck, and water build-up that can seep into your house.
Fortunately, there are many ways to get rid of ice dams, including using de-icers, heated cables, and snow raking. You can further prevent these build-ups by improving your attic insulation and ventilation.
6. Trim trees close to your home
Trimming your trees and plants, especially those close to your house, is a good landscaping practice and an excellent way of protecting your roof. Commonly, overgrown trees lead to excessive leaves and debris on your roof, cause costly damage to your roof if they fall off, and make it easier for pests to access your house.
7. Remove moss, algae, and lichen from your roof
If you notice signs of moss, algae, or lichen on your roof or walls, you should consult with a professional and have them removed. Often these infestations point to a roof leak or moisture problem that should be addressed as fast as possible.
8. Apply coatings and sealants
Applying coatings and sealants on your roof adds a protective layer that protects your roofing materials against harsh environmental elements such as rain, snow, and sun. Remember, not all roof types need coatings or sealants, as these solutions are designed for metal and slate roofs.
9. Repair damages immediately
A common mistake to avoid when it comes to your roofing is ignoring minor issues, forgetting that they can quickly escalate and lead to costly damages. To stay safe, always be quick to hire the right team for your roofing needs whenever you notice the slightest problem with your roof.
10. Replace the caulk around your flashing
Caulk is commonly used around flashings on areas such as the chimney and vent pipes to prevent water leakage. However, since caulking expands and contracts as the weather changes, it is vital to replace the caulk in these areas annually.
Endnote
Regardless of the type of roof your home has, it is possible to protect it and keep it looking new by giving it the proper care and maintenance using these tips.
