A key component to a long life for your roof is proper nurturing. Too many feel that a roof installed by professionals never needs to be maintained again. The installers did the main part, and you need to continue with the upkeep. It isn’t difficult to do, it just needs to be done. If we choose not to maintain our roofs, we may need a new roof long before its potential lifespan is up.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare your roof for the year ahead:
Schedule a Maintenance Program
Grab your calendar and mark out two days in the year, about six months apart, that you will do a little maintenance on your roof. The list of items doesn’t need to be long. A few moments of upkeep and then you are off to do the things you enjoy, like playing golf or reading a good book. The best time to do this program is once in the spring, and then once in the fall, which will allow you to prepare the roof for the summer storms and the winter snowpack.
Please use extreme caution when climbing on the roof. Ask for a friend to hold the ladder and be your assistant while you are doing this work. Wear appropriate footwear to secure your steps and use extreme caution.
If you have concerns about doing these maintenance items, contact a trusted roofing professional for assistance. Shull Roofing in Salina should be the company you call for all of your roofing needs. Their phone number is (785)833-2007, and they are available 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Here are three things to include in your maintenance plan:
- Sweep the surface of the roof free of any debris. This could be leaves, twigs, bird’s nests, or any other debris that has made its landing spot on your roof. This task shouldn’t take very long at all. Many times, the wind will do most of the work for you.
- Clean out the gutter and downspout system. Leaves and debris will find their way into the gutters preventing water from flowing freely. If not properly cleaned out, it could become a problem in the winter months when ice is a factor. The temperature changes could begin to create ice dams and form near the gutter system. Take the time to run water through the gutters with a hose to clean them out.
- Clean off any moss, mildew, or algae that have begun to form. This will usually occur under the shade of a tree, or on the north side of the home. Moss can create huge problems because of its ability to hold water. This moisture build-up is not good if there are leaks in the asphalt shingles, as it will seep down through the layers.
Invest in Preventative Measures
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Benjamin Franklin has been noted as saying this to a group of firemen declaring it is better to be prepared than to find a solution. Use the same approach toward maintaining your roof.
- Attic – Do you have enough insulation in the attic area? This is a vitally important step in keeping your home at a comfortable temperature and will prevent water vapor from pooling on the underside of the roof.
- Ventilation – Make sure the vents are debris-free so air can flow freely.
- Trim overhanging branches or limbs – Trees are beautiful and wonderful additions to a property but can be rough on a roof during a major storm.
Catch Problems Early
Keep an eye out for damaged, curled, missing, or split shingles. These should be replaced right away to prevent future costly repairs. Make sure the gutters are firmly attached to the home. Keep an eye open for any damp spots on the roof which may indicate other damage issues that need to be addressed.
Keep Shull Roofing’s Phone Number Near
We are available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have with your roof, especially when it comes to keeping the integrity of your roof intact. We have years of experience and superior customer service and strive to set high standards with everything we do. Shull Roofing’s goal is simple: To earn your trust.
Call today for a free inspection and let’s keep your roof going strong!
