The roof protects you and your home from all kinds of weather, bugs, animals and falling debris. Yet we rarely think about the roof until it’s too late—and then it can be a big investment.
Since your roof can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance, here are some things you can do to help extend the life of your home’s roof.
Look up.
Twice a year (spring and fall) do a visual, from-the-ground inspection. Look for these problem areas.
Lifting or missing shingles
Damaged drip edge
Buckling, loose or missing flashing
Missing or exposed fasteners
Sagging or broken gutters
Piles of granules
Clean the gutters.
Call in an expert to clean your gutters a few times a year — and especially before a big storm. Otherwise, water can back up and rot the fascia.
Trim the trees.
One good storm can send branches crashing into your roof. Trim overhanging tree limbs.
Look for moss and algae. You can help prevent moss and algae growth by doing the following.
Keep your attic properly ventilated
Remove debris
Trim overhanging branches
Re-caulk, if necessary.
If low-grade caulking was used during the roof installation, flashings may not hold their seal. Call in an expert if you think the caulking needs a refresh.
Check the insulation.
Proper insulation and ventilation in your attic can help keep your roof in good condition by preventing ice dams from forming and reducing moisture.