Ah, the roof! That big, all-encompassing area of real estate that hovers over the rest of your structure like a protective angel. But who harbors your roof? That would be you, and here we are going to talk about three ways you can proactively care for your roof so that you don't need to replace it prematurely.
Keep It Clean
As your roof ages, it will start to accumulate dirt and debris in areas of weather and decay. This can cause moss and algae to grow, which can lead to further damage. Be sure to clean your roof regularly to prevent this from happening. If your roof is dry, you could sweep it with a broom. If it’s wet, you can use a garden hose to rinse it off. Just be careful not to use too much pressure, as this could damage the shingles. The best option is to hire professionals to clean your roof for you. They'll have the experience to wash the roof in a way that avoids damaging it. It's also a good idea to treat the roof with a moss preventative every few years. These two things can go a long way to postponing an impending roof replacement.
Work Those Gutters
Gutters are hardly noticeable as they run along the edge of your roof connected to the fascia, so it's easy to forget about them. But they play an important role in prolonging the life of your roof by preventing rainwater from pooling on it and causing rot and leaks. It’s essential to keep them clean and free of debris to allow them to do their job properly and help your roof last longer. If they are allowed to get clogged, they can cause sitting water which spells big trouble for your roof. It's well worth investing in a gutter system that keeps clogs from happening in the first place.
Make Repairs Promptly
If your roof is showing signs of wear and tear, make repairs right away. If you notice any damaged shingles, it’s important to replace them in short order. If you notice tree branches or other foreign objects on your roof, remove them as soon as possible to avoid any damage. Remove and treat moss and algae as soon as you spot any sign of them. They can spread quickly and hold moisture against your roofing. The sooner you catch and repair small problems, the less likely they are to turn into big ones that will require a new roof.
Eventually, all buildings will need a roof replacement. By following these three simple steps you can prolong the life of the roof you have and delay the time and expense of having to do it too soon.
