Everyone understands the essence of having a roof in their homes. The roof protects your home from the harsh weather, keeps the indoors cool, and makes it a happy place to enjoy with your loved ones. With this in mind, it is vital to invest in your roof in terms of quality installation and ongoing maintenance.
An ill-maintained roof demands frequent and expensive repairs and untimely replacements. Luckily, it is never too late to start learning about roof maintenance. Whether it is an old roof or a newly installed one, the following guidelines will go a long way in keeping your roof in an excellent state.
Inspect Your Shingles Routinely
Regular inspection of the roof is an essential practice for every homeowner. As you examine the roof, you will see if the shingles are damaged or cracked. Though annual roof inspection is advisable, it's vital to inspect your shingles after a storm. After the heavy winds and snow, the shingles may get damaged. But remember that an inspection can cause further damage to the roof if not handled carefully. Thus, hire a professional roofing contractor for this job.
Clear the Debris from Time to Time
Twigs, leaves, and any debris accumulated on the roof can damage it. It holds moisture, and within no time, your roof becomes weak. If the roof is weak, it is easy for water to penetrate and cause damage to the interior structures. Trimming the branches is the best preventive measure against such problems. But if you already have debris buildup on your roof, you will need a roofing contractor to clear it off before any damage is done.
Clean Out the Mold and Mildew
Always be on the lookout for mold on your roofing system. When these growths take root, they will spread quickly and damage your shingles. Over time, the shingles begin to lift. Typically, you'll notice black spots on your roof as the mold spreads. Professional roof contractors usually apply mold remover to clean the roof. They may also attach zinc strips to the rooftop to prevent further growth.
Always Keep Your Gutter Clean
As a homeowner, you do not want to risk having clogged gutters. If the water does not properly flow through the system, you will end up with water damage to your roof and foundation. Remember that gutters keep the rainwater away from your walls and the roofing. The best way to ensure that your gutters are functional is by clearing them of debris and granules regularly.
Even though the roof is designed to serve you for several decades, its longevity will depend on how you take care of it. These simple tips increase the life expectancy of your roof and save you from incurring costly repairs.
When you have something you like inside a jar, you probably put a lid on it — right? In a way, you can think of your house in the same manner. You like and value the items inside, along with the inside of the house itself. So, it only makes sense that you would protect the interior of your home with a lid. That lid is your roof.
Keep that perspective in mind as you read this blog. Learning more about roofing will feel more interesting if you remember what a roof does: it protects the inside of the home and the people who live in it.