How often do you survey your property and make mental notes about what’s done and what’s not? Cured driveway cracks? Check. Mowed lawn? Check. But what about your roof? When was the last time you showed some TLC or even thought about your home’s number one defense against the elements – the roof?
Your roof is an essential part of your property, and it needs to be given attention now and then, just like any other part of your precious home. Algae and moss can take over quickly, gutters can get backed up and full of leaves, and leaks can form without you even knowing.
Here are some tips on how to maintain residential roofs. So, we’ve got you covered, no matter if you have a shingled roof or a metal roof!
Thorough Inspection:
Where are your detective skills? A good roofing contractor will always start with a thorough inspection of your roof – it is the best way to find out what needs to be done and give you an accurate quote.
While you’re up there, look around and see if any damages can cause massive problems in the future. If you see any, make sure to note them and have them repaired as soon as possible.
Shingle Roofs: Look for any missing shingle tabs, cracks, or curling.
Tile Roofs: If you have a tile roof, take a look at the mortar condition between the tiles. If it is cracked or crumbly, it will need to be replaced soon.
Metal Roofs: Check for any dents, rust, or holes. If you see any, make sure to have them repaired as soon as possible.
(Note: Inspecting roofs can be dangerous, so do exercise extreme caution, or – better yet – leave the inspection to the experts!)
Clean Your Roof:
You dread climbing up there to clean your roof, but it’s essential to do it at least once a year. The accumulation of leaves, bird droppings, and debris can cause problems for your roof if not taken care of.
Shingle Roofs: Use a garden hose with a sprayer attachment to remove any dirt or grime from the surface of the shingles. Make sure you don’t use too much pressure, as it can damage the shingles.
Flat Roofs: You will need to sweep the roof first to remove any large debris. Next, you can use a garden hose or pressure washer to remove any dirt. You must let the roof dry completely before walking on it.
Some other general maintenance tips for all sorts of roofs are listed below:
Gutter Maintenance:
Blocked drainage systems can cause significant problems for your roof. You must clean your gutters at least once a year to avoid issues. You can use a hose, ladder, and gloves to do so.
Treat for Moss, Lichens, and Algae:
The wriggly texture of moss can cause damage to your roof. Lichens and algae can also be damaging as they hold moisture against the surface of your roof. You will need to treat these growths with a unique solution that you can purchase from a hardware store.
Replace Caulk Around Flashing:
Caulking helps seal the gaps around flashing and keeps water from seeping into your home. Over time, caulk can dry out and crack, so it’s vital to check it regularly and replace it.
Bottom Line:
Some maintenance tips are not easy to do on your own, and you will need a professional roofing contractor. These would be things like inspecting the flashing or replacing a complete roof.
Sonners Contracting Inc. is a professional roofing contractor with experience in all types of roofing projects in Littleton. Whether you’re looking for gutter installation or roof repair, give us a call today for a free estimate!
