Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Unfortunately, it often gets neglected until major damage occurs.
Clogged gutters allow water to seep under the structure of your roof, causing serious damage over time. It’s important to regularly clean your gutters and downspouts, especially after a storm or as each season approaches.
Clean Your Gutters
A clogged gutter can cause water damage and mold growth. It’s important to clean your gutters regularly. This is a simple task that can be done by yourself or with the help of professional roofing services.
The purpose of gutters is to direct rainwater away from the house, preventing damage to the foundation and basement.
But if they’re clogged with debris, water can’t flow through. Clogged gutters can also damage your fascia boards by spilling over them. Over time, this can rot the wood and give pests an easy path to your attic.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Home improvement refers to adding value, functionality, or aesthetics to your home. Trees can be beautiful additions to a yard, adding shade and offering protection. However, if branches overhang a roof, it may cause damage to the house. Any limbs touching or rubbing against the top during a storm should be properly trimmed. Branches that brush up against the shingles can scratch away at the outer protective coating, shortening their lifespan.
Additionally, branches that are too close to the home can clog gutters. Over time, this can cause water damage to the walls and roof of the structure and soil erosion. It can also be a breeding ground for pests, such as squirrels and other rodents, as they will find shelter and food in the trees near your house. Trimming overhanging branches prevents these animals from settling in.
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Don’t Overload Your Roof
Your roof protects your home, and proper care can extend its lifespan to spare you a lot of hassle and expense. A healthy top also prevents water damage, mold, and other structural problems that could cost you thousands of dollars to repair.
Avoid putting too many plants, ornaments, or other items on your roof, as they can place unnecessary stress on it. Avoid stepping or sitting on your roof, as well. It can dislodge or cause damage to shingles and tiles, as well as introduce harmful fungi like algae and moss to your top.
Trim large trees and branches that hang over or near your roof regularly. These may break off during a storm or harsh weather and cause damage to your roof.
Inspect Your Flashing
Your roof is the first line of defense between your family and the elements. It protects your home from dangers like storm damage, falling trees, and less-obvious threats such as energy waste and excess moisture that could lead to mold.
The flashing is a sheet of thin metal that helps channel water away from your roof to prevent leaks. Inspecting it regularly, especially in spring and fall, is an important part of regular roof maintenance. Check the flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, and skylights, as these are more likely to develop leaks.
It would help to look for stains on your ceilings and attics to catch problems before they worsen. These stains are often caused by leaks that need to be repaired.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
A roof inspection is the best way to mitigate risk and ensure your roof is in top shape if you notice any divots or cracks in your roof after a storm or spot any heavy debris.
Taking care of your roof will help you save money and protect the integrity of your home. Keeping your gutters free-flowing, trimming overhanging branches, and inspecting for leaks are all simple ways to extend the lifespan of your roof. Ensure you have these items checked regularly, and don’t forget about algae growth, which can cause stains that are difficult to remove. Lastly, ensure your roof is properly insulating and venting rain and heat away from your home to avoid high energy bills.
