Roof maintenance is more than just getting inspections and the performance of required professional repairs (as determined by your roofing expert). Some tasks need to be performed throughout the year to protect your home.
Not sure exactly which tasks need to be performed? Read on to find out.
Taking responsibility for your roof maintenance is a vital part of making sure your living space isn’t at risk for further wind or water damage.
What damages roofs?
There are two major factors to consider when approaching roof maintenance: storms and winter.
Storms can rip up shingles, exposing your roof to further damage. The water beneath even a single displaced shingle can cause a cascade of further damage. Storms also cause debris to accumulate in gutters, increasing the risk of water getting into your home.
Winter can pile snow onto your roof, placing increased stress on the underlying structure. Wherever water can collect and turn to ice can force spaces into your roof, which would show up in both an increased risk of water damage and could lead to higher energy costs.
Roof Maintenance Tips
- Clear branches and leaves from the roof and gutters.
- Remove moss and mold from shingles. Use a brush with soft bristles. It’s important NOT to use a power washer or a brush with hard bristles since these will wear down your shingles.
- Clean vents and chimneys.
- Trim overhanging branches. These pose a risk of being knocked onto your roof during a storm.
These tasks should take about a few hours to complete and should be done when the weather is nice to minimize the risk of falling.
How often?
A good schedule would be to perform this type of maintenance twice per year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Put it on your calendar so you don’t forget! (Cleaning the gutters is the only exception; clean them more frequently if you live in a heavily wooded area.)
Roof maintenance doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and minimal time investment, your home’s roof will be ready for both storms and winter.
And if your roof needs a little more attention, read this post about the process of roof repair so you know what to expect!
