With so many factors to consider, maintaining your roof can be complicated. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to ensure your roof is in great shape. Doing so will help maintain its value for years to come and ensure that you have a dry, safe space to live. Plus, proper maintenance will come in handy to avoid any major problems in the future. Here are some tips to make sure your roof is in tip-top shape.
Get a Professional Inspection
How often you need to get a professional roof inspection depends on several factors, including the size of your roof, the structure of the roof, and the local weather conditions in your area. Have a professional inspect your roof at least twice a year if you live in areas that have freezing winter temperatures or deal with ice dams, heavy snowfall, and frequent winds. The good thing about hiring a professional is that they are keen on what they do, and you can trust them when making important decisions about your roof, as well as offering solutions to any problems they find. For instance, if you want to maintain a healthy home in Abingdon or the surrounding areas, it is best for you to search for Abingdon, VA Roofing contractor in order to find someone local that will know what to do.
Clear Trees Near Your House
If you have trees in the yard, either nearby or by the house, it is important that you remove any branches that can fall on the roof and cause damage. A small tree can weigh upwards of 50 pounds, and if one of them falls on your roof, it might potentially damage your shingles or overhang. It is also important to ensure that your roof isn't accessible to any animals or plants that might damage it. The last thing you want is a rodent to chew on your shingles or some vines to latch on and break them.
Be Conscious of the Weather
Sometimes snow and sleet can damage your roof if you do not remove them. The weight of the ice can also be very damaging to shingles, especially in older homes. Do not wait until the snow is gone before removing it from the roof. Once it melts, you will have to deal with issues like rust stains along with rotting deck boards. Also, ensure you patch the roof as needed and where necessary prior to heavy rain or snowfall.
Inspect and Clean the Roof Regularly
While this step is obvious, it's still of the essence. Making sure you inspect the roof regularly will help catch any issues early on and make repairs easier to avoid expensive repairs further down the line. After inspection, take a moment to sweep or clean the roof to remove any plants and trees that can get into your shingles, as well as wires and other objects that could be lying on or close to your roof. Scrubbing your roof might seem like a task, but it is worth it to help keep everything looking great over time. If you want to spice things up, you can add a fresh layer of paint. If you live in a part of the country where it gets windy or the winter season is harsh, causing even heavier snowfall, make sure that your gutters and downspouts are not clogged or covered with ice or ice dams. Also, ensure nails are not loose, and do not forget to dedicate some time to your chimney.
Keep Your Ears Open for Any Noise
When you hear a strange noise coming from your roof, it's important to keep your ears open for the next few days to see if it's coming back. If it doesn't recur, then there is no reason to worry, and if it continues, you should try to address the issue as soon as possible. A creak in the roof usually indicates that a shingle is loose or broken, while clicking sounds are usually caused by bad flashing or weather stripping.
Maintaining your roof can be a little bit of work, but it will be worth it in the long run. A good maintenance schedule will ensure that your roof is in great shape for years and your home maintains its value. It will also save you money while providing protection from the elements outside.
