Studies have shown that the average asphalt shingle roof lasts for around 20 years. Of course, that exact amount of time depends on factors like climate and roof quality, but it is what most homeowners can expect.
But what if you could extend the lifespan of your roof?
Preventative rooftop maintenance is one of the easiest ways to enjoy your roof for as long as possible. This saves you money in the long run, as you don’t have to worry about resolving problems as often.
So what kind of things can you do?
Keep reading to learn about seven types of preventative maintenance you can do to extend the lifespan of your roof.
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Clear Out the Drains
Over time, your home’s gutters tend to build up debris. Make a point to clear these out as often as possible.
When leaves and other types of debris block your gutters, water can’t flow out of them. This prevents rainwater and melted snow from escaping your roof, leading to water damage and other issues.
Aside from protecting your roof, clearing out your drains will also ensure that your foundation stays strong as well. When your gutters are backed up, water tends to pool around your foundation. This can then lead to cracks and other structural problems.
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Dust off Debris
Most people think that because roofs exist to protect us from outside elements, it’s okay to allow debris to accumulate over time. In reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
While most homeowners don’t have to worry about their roofs caving in, what you do have to worry about is these objects retaining moisture. Over time, this can stain the surface of your roof, as well as lead to mold and other problems.
Make a point to clear off everything from twigs and leaves to gravel and bird droppings from time to time.
Also Read: 5 Easy Ways to Prevent Dust in Your Room
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Check for Leaks
Leaks are not the best indicator of roof damage, because oftentimes when you see them, it means that damage levels are already extensive. However, in some cases, there may be no other way to spot problems.
Head to your attic and check your ceilings for any signs of water. Stains, musty smells, and of course, drips, are all signs of leaks.
Also Read: 4 Warning Signs You Need Basement Waterproofing
If your roof does leak, it can be hard to figure out why. Check out this article to see whether or not it’s one of these reasons. You’ll also want to contact a professional roofer to patch up the leak and resolve any underlying issues as soon as possible.
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Check Your Roof Penetrations
With regards to your roof, “penetrations” have a very specific meaning. It refers to any objects that are on your roof or protrude into it. For most homes, this includes things like the chimney, HVAC units, and solar panels.
Make a point to examine your roof penetrations from time to time. If they’ve suffered any form of damage, they may be compromising the overall quality of your entire roof.
Check for leaks, holes, and general signs of wear and tear. If you see any glaring issues, make a point to call a professional to come and fix them.
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Trim Nearby Trees
If you have any large trees that are close to your roof, make a point to trim the branches from time to time. In certain conditions, they can cause damage to your roof.
For example, in wind storms, branches can break off and fall on your roof. Likewise, in winter, clumps of ice and snow can fall off of branches and damage your roof. In some cases, this can lead to water damage.
Trimming away branches that extend over your roof will also limit the number of leaves and debris that accumulate. As mentioned, this will prevent issues like water damage from developing.
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Inspect Your Roof Often
Aside from checking your attics and ceilings for signs of leaks, you’ll also want to inspect the exterior of your roof as well. Spotting problems early on can help prevent them from worsening.
If you don’t have a big enough ladder or just don’t want to take the safety risk, grab a pair of binoculars and inspect your roof from afar. Look for everything from missing shingles to cracks and holes.
If you do find an area that looks off, don’t waste time waiting around. Make sure to call professionals to come and perform a visual inspection of your roof, more info.
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Schedule a Regular Inspection
As mentioned, there are several instances when you’ll want to call a professional roofer right away. They can help resolve any issues that you notice.
However, in addition to having them fix problems, professional roofers can also help you perform preventative maintenance. By having them come to your home every so often, they can help identify and resolve problems before they become severe.
Professionals have the training and experience to inspect and find problems that ordinary people miss. Regular inspections might seem like a lot, but you’ll thank yourself later when you end up saving money.
It’s much easier to replace a few shingles than it is to replace your entire roof!
Take Advantage of Preventative Rooftop Maintenance
Most people leave rooftop maintenance in the hands of professional roofers, but the truth is that there are a lot of things you can do on your own. Make sure to try out some of the tips mentioned in this guide to ensure that your roof stays strong for years to come.
Do you now have a better idea of how to go about promoting the integrity of your roof system? If you do, make sure to browse through some of our posts for more home-related guides and tips.