Every year, millions of homeowners replace their roof, either because it has reached the end of its lifespan or the last storm did a number on it. But even though everyone eventually needs to replace their roof, there are several maintenance tips for shingle roofs you can use to avoid tearing it off sooner rather than later.
We’ve put together a quick-hitting roof maintenance checklist that will help you identify and prevent the kind of damage that spells doom for your average roof.
Roof cleaning services play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of residential and commercial buildings. As a fundamental aspect of property maintenance, these services involve the removal of moss, algae, lichen, and other debris that accumulate on roofs over time. The presence of such contaminants not only compromises the visual appeal of the property but can also lead to structural damage if left unaddressed. Professional roof cleaning services employ a combination of environmentally friendly cleaning agents and specialized equipment to ensure thorough and safe removal of unwanted elements. These services are particularly essential in regions with high humidity, as moisture can foster the growth of harmful organisms. Home and business owners seeking to prolong the lifespan of their roofs, prevent potential damage, and enhance curb appeal often turn to expert roof cleaning services to preserve the integrity and appearance of their properties. Regular roof cleaning not only contributes to the overall maintenance of a structure but also aids in preventing costly repairs in the long run.
The Essential Roof Maintenance Checklist
1. Check Your Shingles Regularly
So, how do you maintain a roof? The first step is to check it as often as possible, especially after a heavy storm or high winds. The good news is that you don’t have to clamber up a ladder to get a good look at your roof. Instead, you only need a good pair of binoculars to see any potential problems. Here’s what you should look for when inspecting your roof yourself:
- Missing shingles
- Curling shingles
- Cracked shingles
- Peeling flashing
- Missing granules
Any of the above signs of damage should be looked at as soon as possible, preferably by a professional roofing contractor who can safely make the necessary repairs to Construction companies in West London.
2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Do they wonder why you should pay for a roofing inspection when you have our roof maintenance checklist right in front of you? An inspector will be able to spot potential problems you might’ve missed and provide you with invaluable tips for maintaining your roof. They’ll also give you a rough idea of how many more years it will last. Most roofers recommend inspections every two years, but an inspection once a year will increase your chances of finding potential issues before they become costly repairs.
3. Look for Leaks in Your Attic & Ceilings
Another good tip that your roof needs maintenance is finding water stains inside your house. You should be checking your ceilings and attic just as regularly as your roof for water damage to prevent any serious issues. The most common warning signs of a leak are:
- Musty odours in certain rooms.
- Water stains on your ceiling.
- Spots on your exterior walls.
- Bulging patches on your interior walls.
If you notice any of these signs, your next step is to locate the leak and call in a professional to patch up the hole in your roof. Though if you’re comfortable working on your home yourself, there are a couple of DIY repairs in the post below you may consider.
4. Wash Your Roof
A key piece of advice regarding maintaining a shingle roof is to wash it. At some point, your roof will start to look dirty, with long, dark streaks flowing from peak to eave. It is algae growing in your house. Algae won’t cause any immediate damage, but if you leave it long enough, it can slowly rot your shingles.
To get rid of these little plant-like critters, spray your roof with a 50 per cent mix of water and bleach. The bleach will kill the algae fairly quickly, but you’ll also want to install copper strips beneath your roof’s peak. When it rains, the copper molecules will stream down your roof, killing any algae for a comeback.
5. Clean Your Gutters
No roof maintenance checklist would be complete without this tip. Though it’s a dirty job, cleaning out your gutters is essential to maintaining your roof. Clogged gutters make it easy for water to seep under the structure of your roof, creating more than just a few water stains. Most experts recommend cleaning them out twice a year, once in late spring and again in early fall, as part of a regular fall home maintenance checklist.
6. Trim Any Overhanging Branches
Tree branches can be a problem for a few reasons, the most obvious being the risk of them falling on your roof during severe weather. Be vigilant when it comes to your landscaping and cut off any large branches that are directly over your roof. It will help reduce storm damage while preventing leaves from piling on top of your shingles, absorbing moisture and eventually rotting your roof.
7. Patch Up Your Chimney
While running through your roof maintenance checklist, check your chimney for cracks or missing mortar. Structural damage of any size can cause bricks to start falling out, which can damage your roof, let alone cause your chimney to collapse. You can hire a contractor to patch up any mortar cracks, break out a trowel, and do it yourself.
Issues with your home’s foundation can cause a sloping or leaning chimney. If you notice your chimney has moved, call a contractor to have it fixed right away and check the rest of your home for signs of foundation problems.
What Should I Do When It’s Time to Replace My Roof?
If you or an inspector determines Construction companies in West London must replace your roof, start looking for a good contractor. Googling is a good start, as Rick Damato of Roofing Contractor notes. “All of our reputations are online,”
