Your home’s roof essentially plays a significant role in providing you with shelter from the exterior elements as well as keeping your possessions safe and sound. Every roof calls for all-around maintenance to keep a healthy home or building. Weather damage, trees and moisture can eventually result in costly problems, so it is imperative to take the appropriate steps to invest in regular roof care in order to keep any issues at bay.
As a homeowner, you are recommended to leave the complicated roofing repairs to specialist roofers. The roofer in Essex is a professional roofing contractor who specializes in roofing inspections, installations, repairs and replacements. For basic roof maintenance tasks, any homeowner can take care of them using the following important tips of roofing maintenance.
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Trim Overhanging Trees
We are all aware that trees add beauty to your home and surrounding landscape. However, they can wreak the most havoc on your roof leading to expensive repairs or replacements. If not properly trimmed, overhanging branches can brush against the roof during a storm causing the roofing panels to wear and tear over time.
Falling branches can also break shingles or create holes in the roof. Large branches falling on the roof are even more hazardous in rough weather because they can scratch or gouge your roof materials. Trimming back and removing any branches leaning on the roof is an ideal way to prevent them from damaging or puncturing your shingles.
Clear Leaves & Debris Off Your Gutters
Your gutters play a crucial purpose for your home, such as channelling water off your home’s roof, ceilings or walls. But they can only perform optimally if they are clean and clear of any leaves and debris. Removing the excess debris, dirt and leaves from your gutters allows them to drain properly and prolong the life of your roof.
It is important to clean gutters, drains and roof at least twice a year (especially in spring and fall) to prevent water buildup that can potentially cause leaking and rotting during the rainy season. Standing water on the rooftop can lead to seep up under the shingles and down into the attic. Even more, excessive water pooling can cause structural damage and your roof won’t be able to support the weight.
Watch Out For Signs Of Shingle Damage
Shingles can get dilapidated and torn off due to everyday exposure to various elements that can cause wear and tear. Damaged shingles could weaken the roof structure and interior space, making them vulnerable to water seepage and rot. For this reason, homeowners are highly advised to periodically examine their roof covering to ascertain their integrity.
Some of the signs of shingle damage include buckled, curled, or simply missing shingles. If you notice any signs of wear, tear and damage, make sure to get your shingles repaired or replaced to prevent any further damage from occurring. Most homeowners spend an average of $600 for roof repairs such as shingle replacements.
Prevent Against Streaking
It is important to pay close attention to the colouring of your roof. Roof areas that are exposed to shade and high humidity for extended periods in summer will eventually get streaked with fungus, mould, mildew, and even algae. And if left unattended, the roofing material on these portions of the roof will eventually deteriorate.
Your roof’s lifespan will be greatly shortened, and old roofs are susceptible to leaking and other signs of trouble. Installing zinc strips along the ridge of the roof is one of the best ways to prevent mould growth and damage. Choose shingle-shield roof protector strips that are precision-engineered to provide safe and long-term roof protection against fungus, mould, mildew, moss or algae attack.
