The costs associated with replacing your roof with a new one can be prohibitive. Such major expenses can be avoided for some time if you take care to carry out regular inspections, repairs and cleanings. Depending on the material used, it’s not uncommon to find a roof that lasts for 20 to 30 years, especially if you treat problems before they get too serious.
Team Roof has some proper roof care tips that you can follow to keep your roof in good working condition and extend its useful life for many years.
Perform Periodic Roof Inspections
Whether you do it yourself or have it done by a professional, regular roof inspections can keep the problem from getting worse. The best time to carry out inspections is before and after the change of seasons, or if weather conditions are very severe, and storms, hail, or blizzards occur.
Another thing you should watch out for is damaged or missing shingles, insect infestation or damage caused by animals. Rust or the growth of algae or mold is a sure sign that all is not well and the problem needs further investigation. Checking the sides of your house for shingles is a good way to identify roof damage.
Most roof leak incidents involve joints, seals, and flashing, so it makes sense to be extra vigilant when inspecting the roof. Flashing covers various points of water entry such as exhaust pipes, vents and chimneys making it more susceptible to leaks.
Watch out for punctures or dents in the flashing as well as sealants that have dried, become brittle or loosened. It is important not to ignore roof leaks even if they seem insignificant as they have a habit of getting very bad over a short period of time.
Prune Tree
According to some of the most famous roofers in Pearl and Texas, it is advisable not to let tree branches near the house hang over the roof because sooner or later the branches will fall and damage the roof. In addition, tree branches hanging over the roof are bait for raccoons and squirrels to access your home.
When evaluating trees, remember that even trees that appear to be some distance from the house can pose a hazard because strong winds can swing the branches closer to the house.
Clean the Roof from Debris
It is quite natural for debris such as small tree branches, twigs and leaves to accumulate on the roof. Over time and with the seasons, they can easily rot and encourage algae growth on your roof. It is good practice to remember to clear the roof of debris every time you trim trees or clean gutters.
The best way is to use a roof rake. Be sure to clean roofs and gutters more frequently during the fall, as the buildup of fallen leaves can be large, and left unattended can lead to a buildup of water or snow on the roof which not only causes dampness but also adds unnecessary weight. structure. Do not power wash the roof to make it clean as the force of the water can damage the roofing material and insulation.
Beware of Pests
Be aware of pests as they can do some damage. Rodents can not only remove shingles and cause them to fall to the ground, but also create holes that can cause structural damage. Termite and ant build-up should be treated with pesticides and checks carried out to ensure it does not recur. Taking action in the early stages may often seem worrisome, but delaying it can only make the problem more serious.
Conclusion
If you carry out proper and timely maintenance, you can expect your roof to last for decades. In addition to keeping your family and belongings safe for years to come, roof maintenance can potentially save you thousands of dollars in extensive roof repairs and replacements.
