PROTECTING YOUR ROOF

Tips to Extend The Life of Your Roof!

Protecting your roof – The top layer of protection for your home is the roof! But most homeowners are unaware that there are things you can do, and actually should do, to extend the life expectancy of your roof. But, all roofs can be protected from early aging by following a few easy steps!

Tip 1 – Keep Gutters Clean!

Clogged gutters is detrimental to your roof! Leaves and debris that are allowed to sit in a gutter work as a wick and absorb water which is pushed underneath the shingles. This moisture will eventually rot the roof decking and make it’s appearance inside the home! It is very common for homeowners to mistake a water stain caused from a clogged gutter for a roof leak!

Tip 2 – Trim Those Trees!

Overhanging tree branches are another culprit that can lead to costly roofing repairs! Trees that are allowed to grow over your roofing system and eventually even touch the shingles of your roof can cause serious damage to the shingles. Holes can be punctured in the roof shingles by the growing branches. High winds are especially damaging to your roof when there are overhanging branches. The abrasion caused by the tree branches will remove the granules and cause weak spots in the shingles.

Tip 3 – Don’t Allow Animals To Enter Your Attic!

Branches that grow over your roof also serve as a straight path for rodents, squirrels, and even raccoons to use. Animals can cause significant damage to a roof and eventually even work their way through the soffits and vents to obtain access inside your home’s attic. Protecting your roof starts with preventing animals from entering the attic by keeping shrubs and trees small!

Tip 4 – Keep Debris Off Your Roof!

Leaves are notorious are finding their way to the top of a roof and accumulating in the valleys. You don’t have to live in the woods to have a problem with leaves accumulating on your roof. Heavy landscaping, tall shrubs, and ornamental trees can also produce leaves that will drop and then blow up onto your roof. If you do live in a wood area, the problem is even more serious because leaves serve as conduit for moisture. When left to attract moisture and decompose, a pile of leaves can begin to mold and will cause serious issues with your roof.

PROTECTING YOUR ROOF | TIPS TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR ROOF

If you roof isn’t extremely tall you may be able to use a leaf blower to remove the leaves. There are also tools that may be help like a leaf rake and a telescoping pole. However, you should not attempt to use a pressure washer on your roof and can cause major damage to your roofing shingles! A garden hose may be used to gently wash away wet leaves but never use high pressure water on your roof! Not only can this damage the shingles and granules but can actually push water under your shingles which will end up inside your home!

Tip 5 – Ice Dams = Major Roof Problems

Ice dams can cause extensive interior damage and need to be prevented! When installing a new roof, it is critical that ice and water shield is used in all valleys and around dormer areas! Reputable Nashville roofing contractors will always install these items on new roofing systems! Sadly, we see many roofs that are not built correctly and when severe weather strikes, these areas are prone to ice dams. There is no guarantee that ice and water will completely eliminate an ice dam, but it is critical in ensuring that you are protected against minor ice built-up.

Tip 6 – Ensure Proper Ventilation!

Have your roofing ventilation system checked along with your home’s insulation! Warm air being allowed inside your attic space can cause ice dams! Inadequate or improper ventilation can also cause condensation or mold to grow inside your home! That is why properly balanced roofing ventilation is critical to the life span of your roof!

Tip 7 – Keep Your Roof Inspected!

If your home has been in the path of a severe weather including hail storms and strong winds, straight line winds, it is critical that your roof is inspected by a professional roofing contractor. Hail damage is not visible from the ground and is often not visible to the untrained eye! But just because you may not see any missing shingles or visible indentations in your roof does not mean your roof is not damaged! Never make the mistake of assuming you do not have storm damage that will short the life expectancy of your roof!

Tip 8 – Check Your Attic!

Protect your roof by occasionally going inside your home’s attic. Stop and check the visible roof decking for any areas that indicate a leak. A minor roof leak may slowly penetrate into the decking leaving a dark spot but will not be visible inside your home’s interior for a long time. Also check for daylight that may be visible around chimneys, pipe jacks or other areas.

Tip 9 – Inspect Caulk and Pipe Jacks

A properly installed shingle roof can last between 20-50 years today! However, roofing accessories like pipe jacks and caulking do not carry this same extremely long life span! Homeowners are often surprised to learn that plastic pipe jacks and caulking break down under the harsh UV rays of the sun. These items need to be inspected after five years and may need maintenance performed every few years by a professional roofer.

Your roof will provide years of low maintenance protection for your home. Following these tips will prevent minor issues from becoming costly repairs. Most roof problems are very easy fixes and can be completed by the homeowners when addressed promptly. When you are searching for help and search Google for Nashville Roofing Companies near me…call MidSouth!