Your roof protects you and your home from a variety of factors such as weather and falling debris. Did you know that well cared for roof can last up to 30 years if well cared for? Unfortunately, roof care is often overlooked and when disasters strikes, can be expensive to fix. We have compiled a list of things you can do to extend the longevity of your roof!
1. Give your Roof an annual Inspection
We a visual inspection of your roof in the spring looking for damages caused by the harsh winter. Our inspection identifies these common problem areas:
- Lifting or missing shingles
- Damaged drip edge
- Sagging or broken gutters
- Piles of granules
- Missing or exposed fasteners
2. Clean your Gutters
Getting your gutters cleaned a twice times a year, especially before a big storm can help maintain the life span of your roof. Gutters can get clogged with debris and cause water to back up and rot the fascia.
3. Trim Overhanging Branches
It only takes one good storm to send overhanging branches crashing down onto your roof. Removing large branches can prevent roof damage during severe weather and prevent leaves from piling up on your shingles which absorb moisture and can eventually rot your roof.
4. Look for Moss and Algae
Here in the Pacific Northwest, we prone to moss and algae accumulation on our roof. This can damage your roof as moss absorbs moisture and can cause the start of roof degradation. Moss roots can life up shingles which increase the moisture content in your roof that eventually leads to mold growth. Help avoid this damage by keeping your attic properly ventilated, removing debris, trip overhanging branches, and having a professional clean your roof off yearly.
5. Check your Insulation
Having the proper insulation and ventilation in your attic can help keep your roof in good condition. Improper insulation and ventilation can cause ice dams to form and increase moisture which can lead to roof rotting.