As a homeowner, you know that there are many maintenance tasks that come with owning a home. From painting the walls to fixing the gutters, there always seems to be something that needs to be done. But have you ever thought about the maintenance that your roof needs?
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it’s important to keep it in good condition.
Here is a list of the 6 methods we are going to take a look at today
- Shingle Inspection
- Trimming overhanging trees
- Gutter maintenance
- Leak inspections
- Moss inspection
- Snow removal
Inspect Your Shingles.
One of the most important steps in taking care of your shingle roof is to regularly inspect it. This means taking a look at your shingles for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, curling, or blistering. If you notice any damage, be sure to address it quickly by getting in touch with a trusted roofing company that can help you repair or replace your shingles as needed.
Trim The Overhanging Trees.
Another important step in taking care of your shingle roof is to trim any overhanging trees. This is important because overhanging branches can damage your shingles, especially during severe weather conditions such as high winds or heavy snowfall. By trimming the branches, you can help prevent this type of damage from occurring.
Keep Your Gutters Clean & Unclogged
You are probably wondering “Why would this help?” Let us explain. When your gutters are full of leaves and other debris, it can cause water to back up and pool on your roof. This can lead to leaks, as well as the growth of moss and algae on your shingles. To avoid this, be sure to regularly clean out your gutters and remove any blockages that might prevent water from flowing freely through them.
Monitor The Moss Growth On Your Shingle Roof
If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you might notice that moss tends to grow on your shingles. While this might not seem like a big deal, moss can actually cause damage to your shingles by holding moisture against them. This can lead to premature ageing, as well as the growth of mould and mildew. If you notice moss on your shingles, be sure to remove it promptly.
Look for Leaks in the Attic and Ceiling
Although you might be in the habit of looking for leaks on your roof, it’s also important to check for leaks inside your home as well. This can include inspecting the attic and checking the ceiling. If you notice any signs of water damage, such as cracked or warped paint, this could mean that there is a leak somewhere on your roof. By identifying these leaks early on, you can help prevent further damage from occurring and prolong the life of your shingle roof.
Remove Snow From Your Roof
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, it’s important to remove the snow from your roof on a regular basis. This is because the weight of the snow can damage your shingles and cause them to collapse. To avoid this, be sure to shovel the snow off of your roof after each storm.
The snow also acts as extra insulation for your roof, which can increase the likelihood of ice dams forming.
What To Look For When Inspecting Your Shingles
Granule Loss or Flaking:
If you notice that your shingles are losing granules or flaking, this is often a sign of damage occurring underneath. This may be due to poor ventilation in the attic, which can cause the shingles to overheat and deteriorate more quickly. This also happens from exposure to harsh sunlight, which can cause shingles to become brittle over time.
Hail Bruising and Damage:
If you live in an area that is prone to hail storms, your shingles may be at risk for bruising and damage. Hail often causes indentations in the surface of the shingle, which can compromise its structure and lead to leaks over time. It’s important to check your roof for hail damage after any severe storm in your area, even if you don’t see any damage from the ground.
Wind Damage:
High winds can cause shingles to lift up and loosen, which can eventually lead to them being blown completely off the roof. If you live in an area with high winds, it’s important to inspect your roof after any storm to make sure that your shingles are firmly attached and not in danger of blowing off.
Roofing Shingles Cupping And Curling:
Cupping and curling are usually signs of moisture damage, which can be caused by leaks or poor ventilation in the attic. This can lead to mildew, deterioration of your roof structure, and even mould growth inside your home. Mould is particularly dangerous because it can cause health problems for you and your family.
Shingle Cracking and Splitting:
Cracking and splitting of your roofing shingles can be a sign of age, as well as damage from exposure to the elements. This kind of damage makes your roof more prone to leaks, which can lead to severe water damage inside your home. Water damage is another issue on its own as it can cause damage to your home’s structure, and even mould growth if left unchecked.
Blistering and buckling:
Blistering and buckling of your roof shingles is another sign that your roof may be suffering from water damage. This can be caused by poorly installed flashing, clogged gutters, or even poor ventilation in the attic. To prevent this type of damage, it’s important to keep your gutter clean and clear at all times and to ensure that your attic is properly ventilated.
Moss Growth:
Moss growth on your roof is more than just an aesthetic issue. Moss can actually hold moisture against your shingles, which can lead to cupping, curling, and other forms of damage. Moss also tends to grow in areas that are shady or damp, which can be a sign of poor ventilation in the attic. If you notice moss growing on your roof, it’s important to take steps to eliminate this problem as soon as possible.
Safety Precautions:
When performing any maintenance on your roof, it’s important to take steps to ensure your safety. This means using a sturdy ladder with secure footing and always watching out for power lines if you’re working near them. You should also avoid walking on a wet or icy roof in order to prevent injuries from falling. If you’re not comfortable performing any of the maintenance tasks on your own, it’s always best to hire a professional to do them for you.
What To Do If Your Shingles Are Damaged
If you would like a professional 2nd opinion we are willing to take a look for you 100% FREE. Don’t hesitate to contact Exterior Alliance today.
