6 Smart Roof Maintenance Tips to Increase Its Lifespan
6 Smart Roof Maintenance Tips to Increase Its Lifespan
A roofing system is an essential exterior feature in any home. It will not only shelter your family against nature’s elements but also insulate your house. Sadly, most homeowners tend to neglect their asphalt roof until it starts leaking.
A well-maintained roof can easily exceed the average 30-year lifespan. Regular roof maintenance and inspections are instrumental in keeping it in great shape. You can identify issues early enough and organize for roof repairs. Here are six tips to help you maintain your roofing.
1. Schedule Bi-annual Roof Inspections
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends that homeowners inspect their roofs at least twice a year, during spring and fall. A certified roofing contractor has a keen eye for detail and may identify potential issues such as:
• Shingle curling and warping
• Buckling or cracked flashing
• Loose fasteners and nails
• Sagging and broken gutters
The inspector can provide recommendations on how to repair the roof. You can also get invaluable maintenance tips and an assessment of how long your roofing might last.
2. Trim Overhang Branches
While trees may have an aesthetic effect on your landscape, the presence of leaning branches over your roof might be dangerous. Besides potentially scratching and gorging out your shingles, the branches may drop on your roof after a storm. The branches, leaves, and twigs that land on your roof may trap water, causing it to rot. Organize for an annual trip of trees that are near your property to avoid an expensive roof restoration.
3. Check Your Roof After a Storm
Wisconsin storms can do a number on your roof. They may send dirty and swaying branches to crash into your roof. It is important to call in your local roofing company to inspect your roof for any damages. It enables you to identify weak points on your roofing that demand immediate attention.
4. Fix all Water Leaks Immediately
Everyday wear and tear on your asphalt roof may cause your shingles to buckle and break. Your roof structure may become venerable to water seepage and leaks. You may need to repair all leaks immediately. Check for warning signs on your ceiling and attic. The moisture can cause your supporting beams to rot, weakening the entire roof system. You may need a professional roof repair to restore the integrity of your roofing.
5. Clean the Roof and Gutters
Leaves, twigs, and dirt may accumulate in your gutters. The blockage may trap water, which may lead to seepage into your attic. The excess moisture may also support algae and moss growth, which will eventually lead to shingles rotting. Arrange for a thorough cleaning and scrubbing for your roof to keep it in good condition.
6. Ensure Proper Attic Insulation
Your roof maintenance checklist cannot end without ensuring proper insulation and ventilation of your roofing. Insulation of the attic flow may reduce the accumulation of moisture and formation of ice dams on your roofing. Check that the vented spaces between the insulation and roof sheathing are not blocked. Improper ventilation causes the sheathing and rafting to rot, weakening your roof.
Your residential roofing system is an intricate part of your home’s exterior. The roof maintenance tips above can help you extend the life of your current roof. Paramount Roofing and Shingles can schedule regular roof inspections and roof repairs to keep your roofing in top shape for years to come.
Whether you need a reroof, a complete roof replacement, or a professional roof repair, Paramount Roof of Madison, Wisconsin will take care of all your roofing concerns. With quality, trained professionals, they will assess the condition of your roof, and guide you on taking further action. Let us help you replace your roof.
