Being an educated homeowner and understanding how to care for your roof is essential. Regardless of the roofing material, this is necessary for its success in protecting your home from the elements. When properly cared for and maintained, your roof will be sure to last its expected lifespan.
Though maintenance can take time, it can prevent extensive damage, premature replacement, and most importantly, it can save your wallet.
To help you avoid significant damage and to identify areas of concern, we have put together this list of maintenance tips. If you are a homeowner, keep reading to further understand your roof and the importance of proper maintenance.
10 Professional Roofing Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
1. Inspect Roofing Material Regularly
Your roofing material is the first line of defense against the elements. Regular inspection of the material can help you identify weak or damaged areas before significant damage is done. Each season brings their own weather patterns that can be damaging to your roof. At the very least, inspecting the roofing material once a season is recommended. Additionally, after large storms you will want to examine the roof material. Wind and rain can wreak havoc on a roofing system, especially if materials are lost or damaged. Repairing or replacing damaged materials immediately can help prevent further damage.
2. Wash Your Roof
Many homeowners do not think that washing their roof is a proper way to maintain it, but doing so will help it in more ways than one. As time passes, your roof will start to look dirty with streaks flowing from the eaves. This is likely algae growing on your roof caused by dirt build up mixed with moisture. When left untouched, this algae will slowly start to cause your roofing material to rot and damage your roofing system. There are businesses that will clean your roof, but if you can do it yourself safely, we recommend using a hose and a soft bristled brush.
3. Clean Gutters
Cleaning the gutters on your house should come as no surprise as a maintenance item. When gutters are clogged with debris, twigs, and dirt, they can cause water to backup and seep into your roofing system. This pooling water will eventually cause a leak to the inside of the home and you will see water stains or experience water dripping. Ensuring your gutters are free of clutter will help prevent this and should be done two to three times per year.
4. Trim Trees
Though it has nothing to do with your roof, trimming your trees is another great roof maintenance tip. Large limbs that hang over your home pose a great threat to your roof. There is a big risk that a branch can fall on your home during bad weather when the tree is not properly cared for. A properly manicured tree can help reduce storm damage along with reducing the amount of leaves that will fall onto as well.
5. Remove Debris
While there likely is not a lot of trash on top of your roof, debris like sticks, branches, leaves, dirt, or other natural debris can cause damage. Removing this debris will help you properly maintain your roof and help keep your gutters clear. The longer debris sits on your roof, the more damage it can cause. Be sure to remove it as quickly and safely as you can.
6. Replace Caulking
The thin metal pieces around your chimney and ventilation is called flashing and it is caulked to further prevent water from finding its way through your roofing system. To help maintain your roof roofing system, inspect the caulking around these areas. If the caulk is missing or starting to peel up, it is a sign that it needs to be replaced. You can easily scrape the old caulk away and apply new to properly maintain your roof.
7. Check For Rot
Rot within a roofing system can be caused by a variety of items. Leaves can sit on the roofing material for a long period of time, water can find its way to the roof deck, bugs or critters could find their way inside, poor quality materials used to build the roof, and so many more. Regardless of the cause, rot can happen and it can cause your roof to crumble. Checking for rot is a great roof maintenance item and should be done at least once a year.
8. Look For Signs of a Leak Inside
Did you know your roofing system is more than just the shingles or tile on top of your home? Many homeowners do not realize that their roof system goes all the way to the roof of the attic. When performing your standard maintenance items, look inside your house for signs of damage to the roof. Water spots, mold growth, and a musty smell are sure signs that your roof has a leak. The sooner you catch a leak, the less damage it will likely do to your roof and home.
9. Understand The Climate Effects On The Roof
Every part of the country experiences a different climate and weather patterns. Understanding the effects of the climate in which you live has won your roof will help you maintain the roofing system. For example, in the southwest, we experience a very dry climate with a lot of sun and temperatures over 100 degrees. The UV rays and temperatures can cause roofing materials to break down, however there is less chance for algae or mold growth because of the lack of rainfall. Consider your climate and understand its effects on your roofing material to properly maintain it.
10. Know When To Get Professional Help
The best thing you can do for your roof is to call a professional when you know you cannot properly or safely complete a maintenance item or repair. A professional roofing company will know exactly what caused the damage to the roof along with knowing exactly how to repair it in order to prevent additional damage in the future. Many roofing companies also offer professional inspections.
If you are located in the East Valley and in need of a roofing expert, contact Craven Construction today. We are professionally trained on all roofing materials and available to complete any repairs. Our team is licensed and insured for your added peace of mind. Call our office to discuss your roofing needs and to schedule your FREE estimate!
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.