What Can I Do to Maintain My Roof?
Roof maintenance is an essential responsibility of homeownership. If you take care of your roof, it will take care of you. A well-maintained roof will also maintain the value of your home. And although roof maintenance and DIY repairs may seem time-consuming and unexciting, professional roof repair can be very costly.
Read on for tips on how to properly maintain your roof.
Remove Loose Debris
Leaves, branches, and general debris can pile up on a roof during inclement weather. Accumulated debris can impact your home’s energy efficiency. To remove debris, safely climb up on the roof and remove what has accumulated on your roof. Make sure to do so on a sunny, dry day to prevent slippage. If possible, have an additional pair of hands available for safety and assistance.
Regular Inspections and Repair
Your attic or other ceilings can serve as indicators that water may be seeping into your home via stains. Check the roof for missing, loose, and lifted shingles as well as moss and mold. Cracks, peeling, and curling may also appear. Replace and repair as needed. If, however, you see that there are peeled, curled, and lifted shingles in more than one area of the roof, you may realize that the roof has reached the end of its lifespan. Hire a professional roofer for a second opinion and to know if your roof requires more than DIY maintenance. A professional will also offer tips and tricks on maintaining your roof and will give you a fair idea of how much longer it will last in its current condition.
Mold and Moss Removal
Moss is by nature moist, and its growth on your roof can cause rot and damage. Additionally, moss grows quickly and can lift up your roof shingles. Moss and mold remover can be purchased from any home maintenance or warehouse store and provides a valuable step in maintaining the cleanliness of your roof. Avoid using a power washer for this task as it may cause unnecessary damage to your shingles.
Keep Soffits, Downspouts, and Gutters Clean
Regular cleanings of your gutters and downspouts help to maintain the integrity of your roof and will also help prevent ice dams from forming in the winter. Ice dams are a leading cause of roof damage in the winter. Use gloves to protect your hands, or use a scoop, to gently remove the debris and then use a brush to clean away any leftover dirt and grime. Now you’ll be able to thoroughly check for any holes and cracks or loose or missing gutter sections. Make note of any rotting, missing caulk, or paint peeling. Make replacements or repair as needed. Also, consider installing screens or covers on your gutters to reduce cleaning time.
Manage Skylights, Vents, and Chimney Openings
After working on the main sections of your roof, examine your chimneys, skylights, and vents. The fireplace should be closed off, and creosote cleaned away before the chimney is examined for damage, including missing or cracked bricks or mortar. Finish your repairs, then seal your work with a water-repellent product. If applicable clean, inspect and repair your vents and skylights. Always put your safety first when performing these maintenance duties. A well-maintained roof will reward you by keeping your home’s value intact. To learn more about roof maintenance, click here.
