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Your roof protects your home from the harsh elements, but it can’t do all the work on its own. Every roof needs regular maintenance to ensure that it maintains a long life. Many home owners neglect these simple steps for proper roof maintenance that help extend the life of your roof and prevent costly damage to the structure of your home.

 

What Is Roof Maintenance?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used throughout the United States. The information outlined in this article will focus on how to maintain asphalt shingle roofs. Barrelle Roofing would like to remind you before following any advice in this article to always be sure to follow proper safety procedures when working on your roof or surrounding foliage. If you are not sure what steps to take to ensure your safety, please consult a professional like Barrelle Roofing for our maintenance services. 

 

Clear Debris Off the Shingles

Debris such as leaves can collect on your shingles and soak up moisture. This can allow moss and algae to grow on your shingles and can compromise the integrity of your roof. This buildup can also prevent your roof from properly channeling water to your roofs gutter system.

Remove Debris off shingles

Clear Debris from the Gutters and Downspouts

The same kind of debris that can collect on your shingles can also make their way into your gutter system. A clogged gutter can quickly cause a buildup of water in heavy rain and lead to roof damage or even structural damage to your home. It’s important that you also inspect and test your downspouts to ensure the water collected by your gutters is freely flowing through the downspouts. Additionally ensure the downspouts have proper drainage at the ground level to allow draining water to disperse and not collect near the base of your home.

Inspect Flashings on Roof for Roof Maintenance

Inspect the Flashings

Flashings are metal coverings installed on the edges of your roof and any features that protrude from your roof. Anywhere where shingles begin or end against a surface on your roof should have a flashing. You should ensure Flashings are not loose and inspect them for visual defects such as corrosion.

 

Inspect your Shingles

Shingles can become damaged or loose as they age or if they are subject to harsh conditions. Be sure to inspect your roof shingles to ensure no shingles are loose or misaligned. Additionally, pay attention to the grainy texture on the shingles. The texture should remain consistent across your roof. If you see that one area of your roof seems to have less texture the shingles in this area of your roof may need to be replaced.

 

Inspect the Structure your Roof Protects

If your house has an attic or crawl space that provides visual access to the wooden structure that supports your roof be sure to inspect any areas you can safely access. Look for signs that moisture is making its way through your roof to the wooden frame of your home. Catching leaks early can prevent costly structural repair later.

 

Keep Your Roof Clear of Foliage

An additional step you can take to protect your roof is to clear surrounding foliage. Trim any tree limbs that overhang or come into contact with your roof. Be sure to give the same attention to any large shrubs that come into contact with your roof. This can prevent having to regularly clear debris to maintain your roof and protects your roof from the danger of fallen branches.

How Often should I Clear and Inspect My Roof?

You should clear debris from your roof any time you can see buildup on your roof or gutters. You should also inspect your roof and gutter system every season for buildup or wear. If you notice any of your downspouts not draining properly be sure to check your gutter system even if you can’t see a buildup of debris from the ground.

We at Barrelle Roofing believe following these simple tips will help ensure the quality and lifespan of your roof. If you see any of the signs of wear or damage to your roof be sure to contact us at Barrelle Roofing and we will be happy to send someone out for a full inspection of your roof.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

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We strive to empower you with the knowledge we have attained from over 22 years in the roofing business.

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