Your home’s roof is exposed to the elements year-round, and they often get damaged from weather conditions such as wind, rain, snow, hail, and high temperatures.
A typical roof replacement costs anywhere from $5,500 to $11,000, so it is important to keep this structural element in great shape for as long as possible. Here are eight tips to ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible.
1. Inspect the roof regularly for signs of damage
The first thing you should do when inspecting your roof is to check for any signs of damage or deterioration. Look closely at all areas of the roofing system, including the shingles, flashing, gutters, downspouts, and ridge cap. If you notice anything out of place or damaged, make a note of it right away. This will help identify problems before they become serious issues.
2. Check the roof’s pitch
Your roof’s pitch refers to how steeply the roof slopes toward its peak. A roof with a higher pitch has more sloped surfaces, leading to water pooling on those surfaces. Water pools on the roof can cause rot, mold, mildew, and other types of damage. To avoid these, inspect your roof’s pitch every few years and use an inclinometer to measure the angle of your roof.
3. Keep the roof clean
Keeping the roof clean helps prevent debris from collecting on the surface of the roof. Debris can create a breeding ground for insects, moss, algae, fungi, and other pests. These pests can eat through the roofs’ waterproof membrane, causing leaks. It would be the best idea to have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year to determine any leaky spots.
Gutters collect debris and allow water to drain freely. When gutters are clogged, water pours into the roof instead of draining properly. This leads to leaks and other roof problems. A professional roof cleaning Seattle or your local company may be needed to remove debris and restore the roof to its original condition.
4. Maintain the roof’s integrity
To maintain the integrity of your roof, you must repair small damages immediately. Small cracks and holes can quickly turn into larger ones, leading to major problems like leaks and rotting wood.
If you see any loose shingles or missing pieces of trim, try to fix them immediately. Missing shingle pieces can create gaps that let moisture inside the home, which can eventually lead to rot. Loose shingles can fall off during storms, causing further damage.
5. Install proper ventilation
Ventilation is necessary to maintain the health of your roof. Proper ventilation allows air to flow freely throughout the entire attic space. It prevents hot air from rising into the attic space, potentially damaging the insulation. Adequately ventilated attics also reduce humidity, which can cause mold growth.
6. Use quality materials
Quality material can add value to your home. For example, using copper roofing material instead of aluminum can increase the lifespan of your roof by 50%. Copper roofing is also resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
7. Pruning of trees
Cutting trees that shade your roof will enable sunlight penetration, which can help keep your roof cool and prevent the growth of moss and algae. Long tree limbs can break off and fall onto your roof during windy weather, causing severe damage. Be sure to trim long branches that hang over your roof. Branches should stand at least 10 feet away from your roof to prevent damage. A tree service company offers many services such as pruning, trimming, removal of dead or diseased trees, stump grinding, and much more.
Endnote
You can ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible by following these tips.
