7 Tips To Extend The Lifespan Of Your Roof

Your roof can last for several decades. However, you can only achieve this lifespan if a professional installs the roof and does proper maintenance. In this blog post, you will learn about the various ways to extend your roof's lifespan.

1. Take Care of Your Guttering

Trees growing around your house can deposit twigs, leaves, and even nesting materials on the gutter system. The deposits will damage the gutters and cause blockage, interfering with the normal flow of water. Water will pool on the gutters and might even leak into it the home.

The best maintenance tip is to regularly clean your gutters, especially in autumn when trees shed their leaves. Also, ask a professional to identify any blockages on the gutters and unclog the guttering system. Another option is to install durable guttering materials, such as stainless steel, copper, and zinc. These materials last for several decades and are recyclable. 

2. Add Home Insulation

Most homeowners install roof insulation to reduce energy bills, but proper insulation can also extend the longevity of your roof. Insulation prevents the accumulation of warm air beneath and within the roof structure. Additionally, warm air typically increases the deterioration rate of any roof.

When installing the insulation, take care not to damage attic ventilation. 

3. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

It is possible to determine the state of the roof by simply looking at it. However, many roofing problems are usually not conspicuous, especially at the beginning. A roofing inspector can do a comprehensive checkup of your roof and detect even the tiniest roof damages. As a result, the professional will repair the roof before the problems get out of hand.

Timely roof repairs prevent roof deterioration that may require premature roof replacement.

4. Fix Broken Tiles and Shingles

As soon as you notice cracks on your tiles or shingles, call a roofing professional to fix them immediately. If you don't fix the tiles and shingles, the underlayment and general roof structure will be in danger. Water can seep through the holes and cracks and damage other sections of the roof. The water can also cause mold and other plants to grow on the roof, increasing the rate of deterioration.

5. Clean Debris and Dust

Ask a roofing professional to clean your roof at least twice a year. The frequency of cleaning depends on your local climate and whether trees are growing around your home. For example, the frequency of cleaning should be higher if your area has long dusty seasons or if the trees in the area frequently shed their leaves. Typically, the roofing professional will wash your roof with a hose to remove debris and dust from your roof.

Most roofing professionals avoid pressure washing since it can damage certain types of roofing materials, such as tiles. The professionals also avoid using specific detergents and chemicals that can corrode or damage the surface of your roof.

6. Get Rid of Mold

Moisture can accumulate on your roof, especially in humid climates and if the roof is shaded by a tree. The moisture and damp conditions can encourage mold, fungi, and other vegetation to grow on your roof. The vegetation will eat away the roofing materials and cause roof deterioration. If you notice a musty odor on your roof, ask a roofing professional to inspect your roof and find the most appropriate mold remediation solution. 

7. Trim Nearby Trees

Tree branches can fall on your roof and cause extensive damage. The trees can also be a gateway for rodents and other animals that can live on your roof and damage roofing materials. Ask a tree professional to trim long branches that come dangerously close to your roof. You can also install metal sheets on the tree trunk to prevent animals from climbing the trees and finding their way onto your roof.

Ultimately, the best way to increase the lifespan of your roof is to work with a professional roofer. Here at The Edge Contracting, our roofing experts can inspect your roof and identify any existing or potential problems. We also offer roof repair and replacement services. Contact us now to get a quote.