Most homeowners will never even think about their roof unless it becomes damaged, but that can be an expensive mistake to make. A well-maintained roof should last for around 20 years, but homeowners that neglect their roof might find themselves with serious damage within just a few years. Here is a look at five simple ways that you can extend the life of your roof and potentially prevent major damage to the structure of your home.
1. Clean Off the Leaves
Piles of multi-colored leaves might be an iconic part of fall, but they can actually do quite a bit of damage over time. After the leaves begin to fall, they will decompose and leave organic material on everything around them. For your lawn and garden, this is a healthy thing, but it can wreak havoc on your roof. Decomposing leaves can trap moisture on a roof and will eventually create mold. All homeowners should have their roof cleaned off at least once every few weeks in order to protect the shingles.
2. Trim Your Trees
Even though your insurance might cover some or all of the repair costs after a tree limb hits your roof, this problem can be a nightmare for families. Severe damage from falling trees and tree limbs can make a house completely unlivable and could even increase your insurance premiums in the future. This is why you should cut all tree limbs that are within a few feet of your roof. All trees that have been weakened by termite damage should be removed from your property as well.
3. Empty the Gutters and Downspouts
Your rain gutters and downspouts are some of the most important features on your home. The primary job of gutters and downspouts is to flush water away from the foundation of your home so that it does not cause structural damage. What you might not know is that a clogged gutter or downspout could also result in water damage to your roof. These should be cleaned out every few weeks during the fall.
4. Replace Shingles Quickly
Modern roofs are actually comprised of a few different layers that will protect your house from the elements. The outermost layer of your roof should be a series of overlapping shingles that allow water to roll down the side and into the rain gutters. The average roof will last for 20 or more years, but almost everyone will find themselves dealing with at least a few damaged shingles at some point. Replacing damaged shingles quickly will prevent water from penetrating your roof and causing more damage.
5. Have It Inspected
Finally, all homeowners should have their roof inspected by a professional at least once every few years or any time that you notice any damage. A roofing specialist can carry out an exhaustive inspection of the roof to ensure that there is no hidden damage. They will also be able to give you advice and tips on how to care for your roof throughout the year and avoid any potential risks such as nearby trees or moisture trapped in the attic.