How to Maintain Your Home’s Roof for Longevity

Estimated reading time: 2.5 minutes

Your roof works hard to keep your home operating its best. It protects against the weather, helps maintain energy efficiency, and helps maintain the structural integrity of your home. Because it works so hard, it’s important to keep it well maintained and inspected to protect it and prevent costly damage.

How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?

All roof types require regular inspections and maintenance. Your roof can last anywhere between 15 and 50 years, depending on the roof type. Inspecting your roof and gutters every season in combination with regular clearing of debris ensures you have an opportunity to catch small issues that may escalate into worse damage over time.

Safety First

Before you begin an inspection or cleaning, be sure you’re taking the proper precautions. Never climb onto a ladder or your roof without a spotter present. Additionally, only climb on clear and sunny days when the roof is dry to prevent slips. When clearing your gutters, leaning your body against them can cause damage to the structure or lead to falls.

If you’re uncomfortable inspecting or clearing your roof, it’s encouraged that you hire a professional. It may cost more money, but your safety is priceless.

Debris and Moss Removal

Branches, leaves, and other debris can accumulate on your roof invite mold, moss, and moisture to prematurely age your roof. Water or plant growth that gets underneath your shingles or other sections of your roof can lead to significant damage to the structure of your home.

Shingle Inspection

Your roof’s shingles should sit flat against the roof and be uniform in appearance. Along with missing shingles, look for loose, lifted, curling, peeling, or cracking and replace immediately to prevent damage to the roof’s underlying layers. If you notice damage in the early stages of your roof’s lifespan, it may just be a ventilation issue. However, if excessive, the damage may indicate that your roof is ready for replacement.

Gutters and Downspouts

After clearing out debris, wipe away dirt and grime with a soft-bristle brush. Missing or broken gutter hardware can also lead to leaks, as water can be trapped against your home. Look for signs of missing caulk, peeling paint on your roof, cracks, holes, or other signs of rotting. Gutter screens and guards can drastically shorten the amount of time spent cleaning them out and protect your roof from the elements, like winter snow or large periods of rain.

Other Roof Elements

Along with your roof and attic, maintaining other elements helps your home stay protected for longer. Chimneys, skylights, and vent openings should be checked for cracked or missing bricks, cracked mortar, and any other signs of irregularity.

Consult with the Experts

Maintenance is an important aspect of homeownership that should be performed with attention and care, much like the mortgage process is an essential aspect to homeownership. We may not be roofing experts, but our Loan Originators are specialists when it comes to home financing. Ready to learn more? Contact us today!