Roof maintenance is an essential responsibility of home ownership. If you take care of your roof, it will take care of you. A well-tended roof also preserves the value of your home. And while roof maintenance and DIY repairs seem time consuming and not exciting, professional roof repairs can be very costly.
Read on for tips on how to properly maintain your roof.
Remove loose residues
Leaves, branches, and general debris can build up on a roof in bad weather. Build-up of dirt can affect the energy efficiency of your home. To remove debris, safely climb the roof and remove the debris that has accumulated on your roof. Make sure you do this on a sunny, dry day to keep it from slipping. If possible, have an extra pair of hands ready for safety and support.
Regular inspections and repairs
Your attic or other ceiling can act as indicators that water is entering your home through stains. Check the roof for missing, loose, and raised shingles, as well as moss and mold. Cracking, peeling, and puckering may also occur. Replace and repair if necessary. However, if you find that there are peeled, curled, and raised shingles in more than one area of the roof, you may find that the roof has reached the end of its useful life. Hire a professional roofer to get a second opinion and to know if your roof requires more than DIY maintenance. A professional will also give you tips and tricks on how to care for your roof and give you a good idea of how long it will last in its current condition.
Mold and moss removal
Moss is naturally moist, and growing it on your roof can cause rot and damage. Plus, moss grows quickly and can raise your roof shingles. Moss and mold removers can be purchased at any home maintenance or warehouse and are a valuable step in keeping your roof clean. Avoid using a pressure washer for this task as it can unnecessarily damage your shingles.
Keep soffits, downspouts and gutters clean
Regular cleaning of your gutters and downspouts will help maintain the integrity of your roof and prevent ice dams from forming in winter. Ice dams are a major cause of roof damage in winter. Use gloves to protect your hands or use a shovel to gently remove the residue, then use a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Now you can do a thorough search for holes and cracks or loose or missing sections of gutter. Look for rot, lack of waterproofing, or paint peeling. Make replacements or repairs if necessary. Also, consider adding screens or covers to your gutters to reduce cleaning time.
Manage skylights, vents and chimney openings
After working on the main sections of your roof, examine your chimneys, skylights, and vents. The chimney should be closed and creosote removed before inspecting the chimney for damage, including missing or cracked bricks or mortar. Finish your repairs and seal your work with a water-repellent product. If necessary, clean, inspect, and repair your vents and skylights. Always put your safety first when performing these maintenance tasks. A well-maintained roof will reward you by maintaining the value of your home. To learn more about roof maintenance, click here.
