Roof maintenance practices prolong its life by preventing many problems from occurring in the first place. It’s a proactive approach that saves on costs in the future. The exercise depends on the roof type, condition, and weather elements. Here are maintenance tips every homeowner should know.
1. Regularly clean your roof
Schedule a professional to clean your roof at least once every two years. They will clear leaves and debris that will damage the roof if left to decompose. While at it, they will also inspect and make necessary repairs. However, schedule the exercise sooner if you detect mold growth, blocked gutters, or cracked shingles. Professional roof cleaning Bellevue can help you get rid of mold and algae to prevent further damage to your roof.
2. Coat with UV protection
High altitude areas experience more direct sun rays harmful to the roof. The UV radiation causes the shingles to deteriorate and eventually break down. As a preventive measure, coat your roof with a UV protectant. It creates a barrier on the shingles that filter the harmful sun rays.
The protectant not only prolongs the roof life but also improves its aesthetics. Some of the membranes also have moisture protection and cool roof technology that reflect sunlight and heat.
3. Trim trees and plants
Trim trees and plants around the house as they might fall and damage the roof. Overhanging branches also interfere with the airflow around the attic. The stagnant air creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. Besides this, overgrown vegetation increases the possibility of rodents and other animals taking refuge in the attic. Let a professional arborist handle the trimming to avoid damaging your property.
4. Check for leaks and cracks
Regularly check the roof for leaks and cracks as they lower your indoor air quality. Water seeps through the cracks, damaging the insulation and wooden support. Because the problem might not be visible from the outside, access the attic to check for any water spots on the ceiling. If you detect mold growth, there might be a water problem. Call a roofing contractor to fix the leaks and cracks as soon as possible.
5. Replace damaged shingles
Shingles protect the roof from direct sun rays and harsh weather conditions. They also enhance the roof’s aesthetics. With time, shingles succumb to the elements and deteriorate. As a result, they might fall off and leave your roof exposed. Inspect the shingles and replace any that are damaged. Keep an eye out for any bald spots as they indicate excessive wear and tear.
6. Snow and ice removal
Snow and ice accumulate on the roof and form clumps that damage the shingles. The weight also puts unnecessary pressure on the roof, which might cave in. To prevent this, remove the snow and ice as soon as possible. You can do it yourself or hire a professional roofing company.
During winter, regularly check the roof for any ice dams and take measures to prevent them from forming. Note that a well-insulated and ventilated attic prevents ice dams from forming.
Endnote
The type of roof you have determines the kind of maintenance it needs. For instance, metal roofs need different care from asphalt shingles. However, these tips are a good starting point for any homeowner. Always consult a roofing specialist to avoid making mistakes that might damage your roof when in doubt.
