As the weather changes it is important to ensure your roof is in the best shape possible. You roof was a big investment and should provide years of protection from the elements and keep your home safe and dry. But, just like many areas of your home, it needs regular roof maintenance to do its best.
We have complied a list of items and tasks to help your asphalt shingle roof perform at its best and keep it in its best condition.
Minimize Roof Traffic
Asphalt Shingles are covered with tiny pieces called granules. It is important to limit food traffic on the roof because this can scuff off the granules. It is also possible while walking on a roof to catch the edge of a shingle, lifting or cracking the shingle. Due to these factors, we suggest limiting the traffic on the roof and hiring a professional roofing company to do these maintenance items.
Gutter Cleaning
Asphalt shingles are designed to shed water off your roof into your gutter system. Your gutter system then collects that water and directs it away from your home and foundation. During the spring and fall it is very common for gutters to be come clogged (depending on the vegetation around your home it could be more or less often). If your gutters or downspouts become clogged this can result it water backing up underneath your shingles and overflow into your siding and brick.
Keep your gutters clean to allow for water to flow freely away from your home.
Remove Close Tree Branches
Just like walking on your roof too much, trees can disturb roof granules by rubbing against shingles. Tree limbs can also be broken, fall and hit your roof causing damage. Especially during windstorms trees can pose a big threat to the well being of your roof. Trim branches enough that even on the windiest days they cannot touch your roof.
Clear Off Debris
Trees can be a great asset to your yard, they provide shade and beauty. They are also a constant source of debris throughout most of the year. It is important to clear off organic debris from your roof. Debris from trees can absorb water which can cause your shingles to remain wet or in contact with moisture for longer than normal time periods.
Twice a year, or more depending on your free coverage, it is important to remove the debris from your roof. It is important that this is not done with a tool that will rub the shingles as you do not want the granules dislodged.
Inspect Flashings
When your roof is first installed it may have been the perfect defense against the elements. Over time natural aging and weathering can affect and degrade the best installs. Flashings are made to help ensure a water shedding seal in areas that would otherwise be likely to leak. We suggest that you have a professional roofing company inspect your flashings to ensure they are intact or if repair or replacement is required.
Check your Ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is a key component of ensuring your roof lasts as long as possible. Correctly venting an attic removes warm, humid attic area with cool, dry air which helps prevent many problems in the home. Get an attic inspection to help ensure both the intake and exhaust ventilation vents are working correctly.
Connect Bathroom Vents Directly to the Roof
Bathrooms are one of the largest produces of moisture in the home, it is essential that air escape the home. There are special roof vents that are made for this specific application. Check to ensure that all of your bathroom fans are correctly vented to outside of your home, not doing so can lead to mold and mildew problems.
Regular Roof Maintenance
A correctly installed asphalt shingle roof is a reliable system that will last for years. You can help extend the life of your roof and help protect your investment with regular maintenance.
We would be happy to inspect your roof and give you a free estimate for a maintenance package. Give us a call at 314-344-3434 or click here to schedule an appointment today.
