Roof Maintenance Tips Homeowners Must Know
Your home’s roof is almost constantly in battle with the elements — UV rays, rain, snow, hail, and more. While roofing materials are made to last, wear and tear is still inevitable. As a homeowner, the roof should not be left out on your home maintenance checklist. Here are roof maintenance tips that every homeowner must know.
Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
It is not uncommon for debris such as leaves and twigs to accumulate in gutters and downspouts. Experts recommend cleaning gutters and downspouts in early spring and early fall.
You can use a power/pressure washer to remove leaves and debris from gutters. There are extension wands available, so you can do the job without the need to climb up your roof. For cleaning downspouts, spray water from the bottom to dislodge any debris stuck inside. Speaking of gutters and downspouts, it will also be helpful to…
Install Gutter Covers or Leaf Guards
Gutter covers or leaf guards minimize the accumulation of debris in gutters, which helps in keeping them clog-free. In case leaves and twigs pile up on the gutter covers or guards over time, you can easily remove them using a leaf blower or pressure washer.
Cut Off Overhanging Branches
Tree branches that are hanging directly over your roof are at risk of breaking and falling. This can cause serious damage to your roof or gutter. Cut those overhanging branches off before they grow long or big enough to cover a portion of your roof.
Check for Signs of Leaks
Check your ceiling and your attic for signs of leakage such as water stains, bulges, or musty odors. If you spot any indication of a leak, contact a roofing professional to have it inspected and repaired.
Inspect the Shingles
If you have a convenient and safe means to climb up the roof, have a look at the shingles. Some of them might have come loose or have been damaged. In case one or several shingles need repair or replacement, have it done by a qualified roofing technician as much as possible. You can go DIY only if you have experience with roof maintenance.
Have a Comprehensive Roof Assessment Every Year
Having a comprehensive inspection done by a professional roofing company can help locate and fix problems before they become serious and expensive to repair. Experts recommend having a comprehensive roof assessment done every year, ideally just before or right after winter. Twice a year would be great, too; it can be done during fall and spring.
If you need roof assessments, repairs, or maintenance in North Carolina, get in touch with Patriot Roofing Company. We cater to a wide range of residential and commercial roofing needs.
