If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your roof all that often. But the fact is, your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from the elements, and it should last for many years if it’s well-maintained. That’s why Madison Roofing would like to provide you with the following 10 tips for maximizing your roof’s lifespan.
1. Clean Your Roof Regularly
One of the best things you can do for your roof is to keep it clean. This means removing any leaves, branches, or other debris that may have accumulated on it. You should also sweep away any dirt or dust that has gathered on the surface.
If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may want to consider having your roof cleaned by a professional Boise roofing company every few years. This will help ensure that all of the debris is removed and your roof stays in good condition.
2. Trim Any Surrounding Trees
Another way to keep your roof in good condition is to trim any trees that are surrounding it. Overhanging branches can damage your roof, and falling leaves can clog up your gutters. By keeping the trees around your home trimmed, you can help prevent any damage to your roof and extend its lifetime. If you’re not comfortable trimming the trees yourself, you can always hire a professional tree service to do it for you.
3. Get Your Roof Inspected Annually
It’s a good idea to have your roof inspected by a professional Boise roofing company at least once a year. They will be able to identify any potential problems and make sure that your roof is in good condition. During an inspection, the roofing company will also check for any loose or missing shingles. If they find any, they will replace them so that your roof is always properly protected.
An annual inspection is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the assurance that your roof will last for many years to come. Roof inspections are also important if you plan on selling your home in the future. A buyer will likely want proof that the roof has been regularly maintained before they purchase the property.
4. Get Rid of Any Ice Dams
If you live in an area where it gets cold in the winter, you may need to take some extra steps to protect your roof. Ice dams can form on your roof when the snow melts and then refreezes. These ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof, so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible. One way to remove ice dams is to use a hairdryer or heat gun. You should never use a power washer, as this can damage your shingles.
5. Remove Mold from Your Roof
Mold can also grow on your roof, especially if it’s in a shady area. Mold can cause serious damage to your roof and is also a health hazard. If you see mold on your roof, you should remove it as soon as possible. You can use a garden hose to spray it off or you can scrub it with a brush.
Once the mold is gone, be sure to keep an eye out for any new growth. If you see any, be sure to remove it right away. Keep in mind that mold removal is not a do-it-yourself job. If you have mold on your roof, you should call a professional Boise roofing company to remove it for you. Attempting to remove mold yourself could result in further damage to your roof.
6. Make Sure Your Roof is Properly Insulated
Another way to protect your roof is to make sure that it’s properly insulated. This will help keep the temperature inside your home consistent and prevent any heat or cold from escaping. Proper insulation will also help reduce your energy bills and keep your home more comfortable. Insulating your roof is an important part of extending its lifetime and keeping your home comfortable.
7. Repair Roof Leaks Immediately
If you have a roof leak, it’s important to repair it as soon as possible. Roof leaks can cause serious damage to your home and lead to mold growth. Leaving a roof leak unrepaired can also void your homeowner’s insurance policy. So, if you want to keep your coverage in force, be sure to repair any leaks right away. Roof leaks are usually easy to fix if they’re caught early. However, if they’re left unrepaired, they can quickly turn into major problems.
8. Replace Missing Shingles
If you have any missing shingles, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. Missing shingles leave your roof vulnerable to water damage and can also lead to leaks. Replacing missing shingles is a simple repair that you can do yourself. Missing shingles are one of the most common problems that homeowners face. But, with a little bit of effort, they’re easy to fix.
9. Clean Your Gutters
In addition, be sure to clean your gutters on a regular basis. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Cleaning your gutters is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. But it’s an important part of maintaining your roof and extending its lifetime.
10. Look Out for Algae and Moss Growth
Algae and moss can also grow on your roof and cause damage. These growths can hold moisture against your shingles and lead to rot. They can also make your roof more susceptible to leaks. If you see algae or moss growing on your roof, be sure to remove it as soon as possible. You can use a garden hose to spray it off or you can scrub it with a brush. Once the growth is gone, be sure to keep an eye out for any new growth.
Speak to a Boise Roofing Specialist
If you need help extending the lifetime of your roof, be sure to speak to the Boise roofing specialists at Madison Roofing. We will be able to give you more tips and advice on how to keep your roof in good condition. Contact us today by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 344-5379 to receive a free quote.