Arguably the most important part of a home is the roof, yet it’s one of the most neglected parts of the home, too. It’s not exactly easy to see the entire roof and inspect it from the ground, so many people don’t take great care of the roof because they just don’t think about it unless there’s an issue. Thankfully, there are some easy things that can be done to extend the life of the roof and keep it in great shape as long as possible.
Check for Damage After Storms
It’s crucial to check for damage after storms to see if you need a roofer to handle any repairs. Small damage is inexpensive to repair and is going to prevent the issue from getting worse and leading to leaks that cause water damage inside the home. It is recommended to check from the ground after every major storm, then call in the professionals if there is obvious damage or anything that looks concerning.
Keep the Gutters in Good Shape
The gutters help to move water away from the roof, as long as they’re in good shape. If the gutters are clogged, loose, or have other issues, they won’t work as well and can trap water by the roof, causing damage over time. It is recommended to clean the gutters regularly to ensure they will work when there is a storm. This may be possible to DIY, but it is possible to call in a professional for help if needed.
Trim Trees Near the Roof
If there are any trees near the roof, make sure they are trimmed regularly. Trimming helps to remove dead or dying branches, so if there is a storm, branches are less likely to fall. This helps reduce the potential for any branches to hit the roof and cause damage. This also helps to keep an eye on the tree to minimize the chance of it falling or having other issues that can impact the roof.
Replace Shingles as Needed
It is a good idea to replace broken or damaged shingles as soon as an issue is detected to help prevent water from getting under or through them. Regularly look at the roof using binoculars to look for potential damage and to make sure the shingles are in good shape. If there is a lot of debris blocking the shingles or there are any that are damaged or missing, call in a professional for help.
Have Regular Inspections Done
Regular inspections make it easier to check if there is any damage to the roof so that repairs can be done before it gets worse. It is a good idea to have inspections done at least once per year. It can be dangerous to walk on the roof and it’s hard to see the details of the roof from the ground, but a professional can handle the inspection safely and accurately determine if any repairs are needed.
If you’re ready to take better care of the roof over your home and ensure it stays in good shape as long as possible, start doing each of the things listed here. They can help keep your roof protected and free from damage or minimize potential repairs to help the roof last longer. Have an inspection done soon to check the overall condition and make sure everything is ready to go forward.
