Roofs are sturdy and built to last, but even so, they require maintenance to keep them in great condition. DIY roof maintenance should be part of every homeowner’s yearly routine, and it doesn’t have to be hard! Here are 5 easy roof maintenance steps that every homeowner can take.
Regularly Inspect Your Roof
The first step is to check your roof regularly, especially after a heavy rain, snow, or wind storm. Many signs of roof damage are visible from the ground, or through a good pair of binoculars, so in most cases, climbing on top of the roof isn’t necessary.
Look for any signs of roof damage including:
- Cracked or curled shingles
- Missing shingles
- Moss, algae, or other growth
- A missing or damaged chimney cap
If you notice any of these signs of damage on your roof, you should schedule a roof inspection with a professional roofing contractor, so that they can make any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
Clean Off Debris
If you don’t see any signs of damage, the next step is to clean off your roof. Leaves, twigs, small branches and other debris can accumulate during wind and rainstorms and get in the way of water draining off of your roof. Over time, this can cause water damage to occur.
Cleaning off your roof is a simple task that can make a huge difference in allowing water to drain freely. A leaf blower or a broom work well for this task.
Trim Away Low Hanging Branches
Your next step should be to trim any low-hanging branches away from your roof. This will protect your roof from damage in the event that a branch breaks during a heavy wind storm.
Clean Out Your Gutters
After you trim the branches, you should make sure to clean your gutters. Gutters can get clogged with leaves, twigs, and other natural debris. If they’re not cleaned out regularly, they won’t be able to drain water effectively. Over time, this can lead to water damage on your roof.
Routinely Check Your Attic For Signs of a Leak
The last step you should take is to check your attic for signs of a leak. Sometimes water damage that isn’t visible from the ground shows itself in your attic. Water spots on the walls or ceiling, puddles, and moisture are all signs that water damage may be present, and that a professional roof inspection is necessary.
DIY roof maintenance tasks help prolong the lifespan of your roof and go a long way in keeping your roof in great condition. Even the well-maintained roofs wear out eventually though. If you notice signs of shingle wear-and-tear, gutter damage, leaks, or other types of water damage in your attic, it is time to get a professional involved.