Homeowners know that replacing a roof can be expensive. That is why proper maintenance is so important. If you follow the tips below, you can avoid costly roof repair and replacement.
- Conduct regular roof inspections
You should have your roof inspected at least twice a year. After all, the sooner you catch a problem, the easier it is to fix. In the spring, check for signs of damage caused by snow and ice over the winter. When autumn rolls around, make sure your roofing and gutters are clear of debris and leaves that could build up and cause blockages. If you do notice any problems, call a roofing service to do some maintenance. - Trim your trees
Walk around your house and take a look at the trees on your property. Limbs hanging over or resting on your roof can cause serious damage to your house — or to you and your family! — and must be removed immediately. - Keep an eye out for wild animals
Always check the exterior of your home for damage done by animals. Squirrels and birds have a tendency to make themselves a new home in and under roofing, where they can cause extensive, and expensive, damage. - Check for other kinds of pests
Termites can wreck havoc on your house, and they are not always easy to spot. If you notice evidence such as sawdust, shredded wood, or bug feces, make sure to call a professional exterminator immediately. - Check your shingles
If you live in a stormy area with heavy winds, keep an eye out for loose or missing shingles. Ensure there aren’t any stray shingles on the ground, and take a peek in your gutters, too. It is wise to check after any severe storm. - Inspect your attic
Once you’re back inside, look up. The ceiling of the attic may show telltale signs of water damage. An attic can act as a breeding ground for toxic mold when moisture is introduced. Mold poses a serious health risk to those living in the home, so fixing water damage immediately is essential.
Your roof is essential to the structural integrity of your house, so it is no wonder the roof contracting industry generates about $46 billion of revenue each year.
Inspecting and maintaining your roof can save you a lot of money in the long run. Damaged roofs are highly inefficient when it comes to energy use. By keeping your roof in good condition and replacing standard windows with energy efficient window installations, you can lower your energy bills by up to 15%.
A little maintenance can go a long way. Rather than replacing your roof entirely every few years, fix problems as they arise. However, if you do need a brand new roof, make sure to remove the old one first. Roofing experts say that a new roof’s life expectancy is cut by as much as 20% if it is installed on top of the existing one.
