The roof is an integral part of your home’s structure and is a significant factor in protecting your family from the elements. Take care of your roof and ensure it is in good shape throughout the year. Here are tips to maintain your roof and protect your family and belongings.
Maintain Your Roof Starting with Inspections
Regular inspections help you catch minor issues before they become big problems. The best time to inspect your roof is in the fall, right before winter hits, as this is helpful to identify issues that could be a problem during bad weather and cold temperatures. During an inspection, check for missing or damaged shingles, look around chimneys and skylights for cracks and holes, and ensure that the gutters are clear of debris.
Cleaning the Roof
Cleaning off dirt and debris from the roof should be done at least twice a year. Remove fallen twigs and branches, and wash algae and mold growth from the roofing materials.
If there are trees close by, trim back branches that overhang the roof, as these can cause damage due to rubbing against shingles, colliding with the roofing, or dropping leaves that clog the gutters.
Make Repairs to Maintain Your Roof
Maintaining your home’s roof is part of being a homeowner. Knowing how to repair broken or missing shingles can save you time and money in the long run. If you notice broken or missing shingles during your inspection, replace them immediately to keep water out of your home. You’ll need a few essential tools, such as a hammer, utility knife, pry bar, and replacement shingles.
If you aren’t comfortable handling the repairs, hire a roofing professional to do the work.
Keep the Gutters Clean
Maintaining your home’s roof is necessary for your property’s aesthetic and longevity. Gutters are essential to your roof system and should be kept clean and functioning to prevent costly repairs.
Start by regularly checking gutters for debris, leaves, twigs, and debris that block water flow. Remove debris manually or with a small shovel to keep your gutter system functioning properly. Use caution when working around gutters and take appropriate safety measures such as wearing gloves, eye protection, and a stable ladder.
If you live in an area with many trees, install gutter guards to reduce clogs from debris like leaves, twigs, and pine needles that accumulate over time.
Call a Professional
If you notice serious damage or leaks on your roof, it’s best to call in a professional for repairs rather than try to DIY them. A professional will have experience dealing with all roofs and know precisely how to fix any issue. They can also advise what materials work best for different climates and which products would last longer under certain conditions.
Proper annual maintenance will keep your family safe and protect your home from harsh weather conditions. Regular inspections, cleaning debris off the roof’s surface, and calling in a professional for major repairs will maintain the integrity of your home’s structure for years.
Appalachian Inspection Services provides home inspections to customers in Western North Carolina. Contact us to request our services.