Everyone is aware of how crucial having a sturdy roof over one’s head is. Your roof keeps the rest of your house safe from harm, helps keep your house cool or warm, increases the value of your house, and makes your home a healthier and happier place for you and your family to live. Even though your roof isn’t brand-new, if you start using these easy maintenance methods right away, you might be able to keep it in excellent shape for a lot longer than the typical 15 years that most warranties cover.
Check your roof twice a year and following each major storm.
Spending some time evaluating your roof twice a year, in the spring and fall, as well as after significant storms, is the first step in keeping it in good condition. Both the inside and outside of the roof should be inspected every two years. The exterior of the roof should be inspected following a storm to check for damaged tiles or gouges caused by flying debris. Inspections should be conducted using a ladder or binoculars.
Trim Tree Branches That Hang Too Far
Take notice of any trees that are close to the house or roof when inspecting the roof. If any healthy branches are hanging over the roof, they should be pruned back. Falling leaves or pine needles may find their way into the valleys of your roof, where they can trap moisture, corrode the tiles, and allow rainwater to soak through, further damaging the roof’s structure. Falling branches can also damage roofing tiles and gouge holes in the roof. By cutting those branches back before they cause damage, you are employing preventative measures to safeguard your roof.
Clear your roof of all debris.
Additionally, you should clear your roof of all debris at least twice a year. Over time, dirt, leaves, pine needles, and other debris can lead to the growth of mould and mildew on your roof and other problems. By keeping your roof free of debris, you reduce the chance that it will sustain damage and make it not only appear better but also last as long as possible.
Keep mould and mildew from growing
Mold and mildew are indicated by black stains on your roof. Mold has a tendency of finding its way into your roofing tiles over time, which can harm the roof itself. Placing zinc strips at the peak of your roof will result in zinc washing off the strips each time it rains and stop mould and mildew from growing if your roof is brand new and clear of mould and mildew. If your older roof has started to mould, you should first clean it with a mould remover developed specifically for roofs before fastening zinc strips.
Keep the gutters in good condition and clean.
Since water can back up under many different kinds of roofing materials, clogged gutters can cost your roof thousands of dollars in damage. You can ensure that your gutters can do their intended task of keeping rainwater away from your roof and those roofing tiles by keeping them clean and in good repair.
Replace broken roofing tiles and shingles
Many people fall into the trap of believing that one missing shingle or one broken roofing tile won’t have any lasting effects. This is demonstrably incorrect. You must replace any damaged shingles or tiles if you want to keep your roof in peak condition. Roof damage can result from even a little tile corner being pulled off. So stock up on spare shingles and tiles, and if the need arises, learn how to fix them properly.
As necessary, replace roof sealants
Check all the areas where roof sealant is applied; if there are any cracks or small pieces missing, the sealant is exhibiting symptoms of wear and tear and has to be removed and replaced with new sealant.
Replace the crumbling mortar around the chimneys.
Make careful to inspect your chimney for missing or broken masonry and replace it as necessary. The mortar holds the chimney bricks in place, and if a brick were to fall, it might seriously damage your roof and cause you to lose heat at an inconvenient moment.
Don’t Forget to Remove the Snow
Snow will inevitably accumulate on your roof if you live in a region that experiences frequent heavy snowfall and have decent insulation. Snowfall is often very heavy, and the added weight can harm your roof. Additionally, the thawing and freezing of snow on the roof can result in ice dams that push up against the roofing tiles, harming both the tiles and the roof itself when the spring thaw comes.
Have Your Roof Inspected by a Professional
Even if you can take care of the majority of your own roof maintenance and inspection, you should still have a professional inspection at least once every year, or twice a year if your roof is more than ten years old. Professionals are able to identify possible issues and resolve them before you even notice them. A professional tetőfedés inspection and repair will cost less than having to replace your roof earlier than necessary.
