7 Roof Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

It’s true that roofs don’t last as long as the house foundation, but it’s always better to have to replace your roof after a couple of decades than to be forced to do it a lot sooner. 

Regular roof maintenance doesn’t require too much effort and work, yet it can still make a huge difference when it comes to its longevity and durability. Seasonal maintenance chores are more than enough to keep the roof in good condition.

1. Make Sure Your Slates Aren’t Damaged

The most important maintenance tip for keeping the roof secure is to regularly check out the condition of the slates or tiles. Make it a point to do this after every storm, hail, and high winds. And if you find it troublesome to climb up to check up on your roof, you can easily perform this task from the ground with a good pair of binoculars.

You want to make sure that there are no missing or cracked slates or tiles, missing granules, or peeling flashing. In case you spot any of these damages, make sure to fix the issue as soon as possible. If you don’t have the skill, it might be better to get professional assistance.

2. Have Regular Roof Inspections

Every 1-2 years, make it a point to get a professional inspection of your roof. Even with the maintenance tips that you can do as a homeowner, it’s crucial that you have an expert check up the overall roof condition annually or bi-annually. They can spot potential problems and damages quicker and easier than you, thus preventing more serious trouble and higher repair costs.

3. Check for Leaks in the Ceiling

To continue your roof maintenance, you should pay close attention to the appearance of your ceilings as well as your attic, if you have one. In case you spot any water stains, it’s a clear sign that your roof is damaged. Even if you don’t see clear water stains, musty smells and bulging patches on interior walls could also be a clear sign that your roof is not repelling water as well as before.

Once you’re absolutely sure that there’s a leak on your roof, you have to locate that leak. Then proceed to patch it up. This isn’t a difficult process but if you have no experience in this kind of handiwork, it would be better to hire professionals in the field.

4. Wash Your Roof Regularly

Every season or two, make it a point to wash your roof. All you really need is to mix in 50% bleach and 50% water in order to create the ideal roof cleaning solution. 

Simply spray your roof and enjoy the benefits of bleach. It won’t only keep your roof looking cleaner but it will also kill any potential mold or algae. Algae spoils the overall appearance of one’s home and can even cause the slates to rot if left ignored for too long.

5. Keep Your Gutters Clean

This may not be the easiest job on this list, but cleaning your gutters is essential if you want to keep your roof in pristine condition. Luckily, you don’t have to deal with this chore more than twice a year to be completely safe. Otherwise, the dirt, debris, and moisture are likely to seep under the roof’s structure, causing major leaks, water stains, and mold.

If you have a pressure hose, this job will instantly turn much easier. While you don’t need professional help to clean up your gutters properly, you might want to consider renting a pressure hose for this purpose.

6. Trim and Prune the Trees

It’s great to enjoy the shade from a big tree in your yard, but if the branches are well over the roof’s surface, you should be ready to trim and prune them adequately. These overhanging branches pose an immediate danger to the roof during stormy seasons as they can break, fall, and damage the roof.

Also, falling leaves can accumulate, which can end up rotting your shingles. If the tree in question has fruit, the danger is even bigger, as the fruit falling on your roof and rotting away can speed up the damage on the roof surface, too.

7. Fix Your Chimney as Needed

As you go about checking out the condition of your roof, don’t forget to take a good look at your chimney as well. In case you spot any structural damage such as missing mortar or cracks, it’s crucial that you react immediately and proceed with proper repairs.

Otherwise, you’re risking the chimney affecting the support and structure of your roof, which can end up with bricks and shingles falling out. The chimney could collapse as well.

Taking good care of your roof will also help you keep your entire home in a good condition that creates a pleasant personal environment. Dividing the workload over seasons and years shouldn’t affect your schedule too much, yet it can make a huge difference for your comfort and safety.