Tips to Increase Your Roof's Life

Although a roof is a crucial component in a home, many homeowners only think about it when a significant issue like a leak or wind damage arises.

However, you must care for and maintain your roof to keep it in prime condition and prolong its lifespan. A well-maintained roof can serve you for 15 to 70 years, or maybe more, depending on the material, climate, and installation. Learn seven ways to increase your roof's lifespan.

Trim Nearby Branches

If you have any branches hanging too close to your roof, you should trim them. Overhanging branches pose numerous problems for your roof. First, they can fall on your roof, especially during storms or strong winds, and damage it. Second, constant abrasion from branches can damage shingles.

Third, overhanging branches provide a highway for critters like squirrels to access your roof and wreak havoc. Trimming overhanging branches preserves your roof's integrity while ensuring your safety and peace of mind.   

Limit Snow Accumulation

Snow build-up on a roof can damage it and decrease its lifespan. In addition, the weight of snow can cause roof collapse for old or dilapidated houses. Use a snow rake to get rid of snow on your roof. This way, you reduce the weight of snow on the roof and reduce the probability of snow melting and pooling on your roof.     

Inspect Shingles

With time, shingles can become loose, cracked, or curled. During cold seasons, your shingles can shrink and crack, and extreme storms can blow them from the roof. Missing shingles can cause roof leaks and open your home to water damage. Inspect your shingles often, especially after inclement weather.     

Clean Gutters

Cleaning your gutters frequently to eliminate leaves, sticks, and other debris is vital for several reasons. First, it protects your roof and increases its life expectancy. Second, it prevents water damage. When leaves pile up on your gutters, they block them, and rainwater does not drain well, resulting in damage to your home's interior and exterior.

Third, it preserves your home's structural integrity as rainwater does not pool around your foundation. Lastly, it keeps your home pest-free. Clogged gutters offer a good home for birds, rodents, and insects.

Ventilate the Attic

You can increase your roof's lifespan by ventilating your attic to let cool air inside and push out warm air. When your attic has high moisture levels, which is more likely with heat, mold and mildew can grow and damage your insulation and roof. Ventilation also reduces cooling costs since the heat in the attic does not get to the house.

Get Rid of Algae and Moss

Algae and moss are common on wood, asphalt, and concrete roofs, especially in cold regions. These growths can erode the protective UV granules on your roofing shingles. Also, they retain moisture, making shingles wear out faster. 

Inspect Annually

You should hire a roofing professional to inspect your roof each year. A professional is knowledgeable and experienced in roofing and can identify and fix any issues before they require extensive and expensive repair. Also, a roofing professional can advise you on how to care for your roof.

Apart from inspecting your roof's exterior, a roofing professional will check your ceiling, especially the attic. They will check for any signs of water damage, such as discolored ceilings, sagging sections, moldy odors, and peeling wall surfaces. These signs indicate that your roof is leaking and needs urgent attention before severe damage occurs.

A roof is a significant investment. Proper care and maintenance ensure your roof lasts long, prevents premature wear, and provides a return on investment. Get in touch with Alpha Roofing Services for roof installation, inspection, and repair. We have 20 years of experience handling residential and commercial roofing issues.