Extending The Life Of Your Home’s Shingled Roof
When it comes to your home's roof, you want to be sure that it's in good condition. A dirty roof can be an indicator of other problems with your home so it's important to keep it clean and healthy. A clean roof extends the life of the shingles and prevents deterioration, lengthening the amount of time in between roof repairs. There are a few ways to ensure that you extend the life of your roof which we will explore in detail below.
Keep Your Roof Free Of Debris
When dirt, leaves, or other debris build on top of your shingled roof, they can block sunlight from reaching the shingles themselves. This can cause discoloration more quickly than they would otherwise. If you notice brown stains on your shingles or if they feel brittle when you walk across them, then this could indicate that there is too much debris on top of them to get enough sun exposure for proper maintenance.
It's important for homeowners to have their roof inspected by a professional at least once per year for signs of damage and degradation so that they can take action before any major issues arise.
The first step in cleaning your shingles is to remove any debris that has collected on top of them so that it doesn't cause further damage when it rains or snows. You should also make sure that there are no holes or tears as the shingles need to be completely intact for proper waterproofing abilities. Once you've removed any debris from your shingles, clean them with a soft-bristled brush or broom until all dirt and grime has been removed from each shingle's surface area.
Check For Good Ventilation And Leaks
It is important to inspect your attic and ceiling regularly to check if they are adequately ventilated. Start by looking for signs of excessive heat and moisture buildup such as dark spots on the ceiling of your attic. If you do not have attic access, use a flashlight to inspect the underside of the roof sheathing for signs of condensation or water damage. If you find signs of excessive heat and moisture, you should take action to improve your attic ventilation.
If you have soffit vents, it is important to check them to make sure they are not being blocked. You can do this by feeling for a current of air coming from the vents. If the vents are blocked, the air in the attic cannot escape and will quickly overheat, leading to damage to your roof and structure.
Additionally, check for any obvious signs of water leaking into your ceiling or attic, such as water stains or mold growth. If you find any, try to identify the source of the leak and repair it immediately.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Trimming overhanging tree branches can help preserve the life of your roof by protecting it from damage caused by falling branches, leaves, and branches rubbing against the roof and gutters. Additionally, heavy overhanging branches can place excess weight on the roof, causing extensive damage over time.
To prepare for trimming overhanging tree branches, begin by making sure you have the right tools and safety equipment. Before you begin pruning, take a few moments to assess the tree and identify which limbs need to be cut. Be sure to keep an appropriate distance from power lines and use a ladder to reach the overhanging branches. If any branches are too large, reach out to a professional to safely remove the branches.
Inspect Your Roof After Big Storms
Inspecting your roof after big storms is essential to avoid any further damage or costly repairs. After a big storm, reach out to a roofing contractor like the team over at NEXGEN Restoration & Roofing for an inspection. It is important to inspect the roof for any visible signs of damage such as missing, lifted, or warped shingles, dents or cracks in the metal, and any other signs of damage that may compromise the integrity of the roof. Other things to look for include pools of water, broken or missing gutters, and debris such as trees or branches that may have landed on the roof. Fixing any damage you find quickly and properly can help you avoid costly repairs in the future, as well as preventing further damage from being done by the elements.
Taking care of your roof and having regular inspections helps to extend the life of your roof. A quality roof helps to protect your family from the sun, wind, and rain, while also providing insulation to increase energy efficiency and conserve energy. Experienced contractors, like the team at NEXGEN Restoration & Roofing understand the importance of a properly installed and maintained roof. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for all your roofing needs.
