Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects the inside of your home from rain, snow and other unwanted weather. While the roof is a critical piece of your home’s structure, it is one of the least maintained areas of the home. Here are some crucial roof maintenance tips that all homeowners need to know.
1- Clean Gutters
One of the best ways to protect and maintain your roof is to regularly clean your gutter. The frequency of how often you should clean your gutters depends on where you live. If you live near trees, you may need to clean your gutters each week during the spring, summer and fall months. If you live in an isolated area with no trees, you may only need to clean your gutters once or twice a year. It is important that you check your gutters to ensure that it is free of debris, leaves, dirt, bird nests and more.
2- Trim Trees
Trimming trees in your yard is essential to helping maintain the longevity of your roof. If tree branches are constantly touching your roof, the singles may crack and deteriorate faster than if there were no trees around. Trimming trees also helps reduce the risk of tree branches falling onto your roof and causing damage. While trees can help improve the overall appearance of your yard and provide shade and privacy, they should be trimmed frequently to protect your roof.
3- Inspect Twice a Year
Each fall and spring, you should get a ladder and climb onto your roof. If you are uncomfortable doing this, you can always hire a professional to help. Conduct a visual inspection of your roof to look for moss growing, soft spots, holes, leaks and more. The earlier you notice a problem, the quicker and less costly a repair will be.
4- Re-Caulk When Needed
When inspecting your roof, you may notice small cracks around the different areas of your roof. One of the most common places that needs re-caulking is around a chimney. If you notice any small cracks in the older caulk, you should try to re-caulk the area. This will help prevent leaks and mold from getting into your home. Taking the time to repair this will save you a great deal of time and money in the long run.
5- Look for Leaks
One of the best ways to help maintain your roofs’ longevity is to check for leaks. you should walk into the attic and check for leaks at least twice a year. Bring a flashlight to inspect both the ceiling and the floor for water or water damage. The best time to check for leaks is after a hard rain storm. This is when you are most likely to notice water, if there is a leak present. Try to detect a leak before it has a chance to cause mold.
6- Call a Professional Early When a Problem Arises
If you notice any problems with your roof, whether it be a leak, missing shingle or something else, it is essential that you call a professional right away. The earlier a professional is able to see the problem, the quicker they can help you. If the problem goes unfixed for too long, it can cause significant damage to your home and cost a lot more to fix.