Did you know that excessive moisture and mold issues affect about 50% of US homes? Most of these problems result from faulty or defective plumbing. However, many others are due to leaky roofs.
That means roof leaks can put your home at risk of water and mold damage. Indoor mold growth, in turn, can lead to poor indoor air quality (IAQ). Unfortunately, poor IAQ can bring health effects like eye, nose, and throat irritation.
All that should be good enough reason to keep your roof in tip-top condition.
To that end, we created this list of roof maintenance tips that can help extend the life of your roof. Read on to discover three tasks you can DIY and one that’s best left in the hands of pros.
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Don’t Let Flora Flourish on Your Roof
Were you aware that there are 12,000 species of moss worldwide? What’s more, these plants can absorb so much water and survive harsh, dry conditions. Many others love sunshine or bright environments, such as the rooftop.
All these characteristics make moss one of your roof’s biggest enemies. For example, when they suck in a lot of water, they can place unnecessary extra weight on your roof. The excess moisture can also penetrate the roofing membrane, giving rise to a leaky roof.
So, as much as possible, remove moss and other vegetation from your roof as soon as you see them.
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Sweep It Clean
Roof brooms have longer handles than regular brooms, and they’re also extendable. This makes them useful for cleaning the edges of your roof from the ground. Their longer handles also allow you to clean a larger area of your roof from a stable, secure ladder.
Roof brooms are best for sweeping away larger debris such as leaves and twigs. By contrast, roof scrubs (which look like large brushes) are ideal for removing algae or moss. know more: Hampstead arborists for tree pruning
Whichever of these two you use, make sure not to apply excessive pressure. Otherwise, their bristles can scratch the outermost layer of your roof. Don’t scrub too hard, either, as too much force can dislodge the panels.
Don’t forget to clean your gutters and downspouts, too! While you’re at it, install gutter screens, which can help keep debris out of the downspouts.
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Get Those Branches Out of the Way
Low-hanging tree branches can score and scrape the outermost layer of roofing systems. Over time, these scratches can get deep enough to let moisture seep through. Larger branches can also push or tug at shingles or tiles, causing them to detach and spring leaks.
From there, the seepage can cause the adhesive used on your roof to lose its “stickiness.” This can also give rise to water penetration affecting your interior ceiling. All these can lead to premature roof repair or even early roof replacement.
So, to avoid all these, make sure tree branches are six feet away from your roof. This can also protect your roof from branches that may snap and fall during bad weather.
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Give Your Roof a Thorough Inspection Twice a Year
You can DIY the tasks above, but you should still get professional roofing services twice a year. You’d want a comprehensive roof check-up once after winter and once in the fall. This way, you can have your roof checked for damages caused by ice, snow, wind, rain, or falling debris.
Before you choose a roofer, be sure to learn more about this service provider first. Make certain they carry state and municipal licenses and insurance. They should also provide a service warranty, especially if you hire them for roof repairs.
Follow These Roof Maintenance Tips Today
Always keep in mind that many types of roofing systems last for at least 20 years. However, for your roof to last this long (or even longer), you need to give it some proper TLC, such as routine cleaning.
So, as early as today, be sure to follow our recommended roof maintenance tips.
Ready for more ways to keep your home in its best condition? Feel free to check out our other home and garden resources then!
