Proper maintenance is key if you want your roof to last for years. Shingle roofs are dependable and affordable. Still, you’ll need to protect your investment to avoid early shingle deterioration. As a top roofing contractor in Temple, Texas, let’s discuss our top tips for roof maintenance.
Maintain Your Roof with These 7 Steps
Regular maintenance takes time and effort, but it can save you money in the long run. If you own a house with a shingle roof, here are seven steps you can take to avoid early deterioration:
1. Perform Visual Inspections
One of the easiest ways to maintain your roof is to keep an eye on it. Regular inspections can help you identify minor issues before they become more significant problems. When inspecting your roof, take the following steps:
- Look for missing or damaged shingles.
- Check for signs of water damage.
- When possible, check around vents, chimneys, and roof edging to look for signs of water damage.
- Call a professional roofing company immediately at any sign of a problem.
2. Keep Trees Trimmed
Trees should be trimmed regularly to avoid storm damage. If you have trees on your property that hang over your roof, it’s vital to cut away any branches that can fall on and damage your roof. If you are unsure how to or can’t trim trees yourself, you can easily find someone to hire for the job. A professional arborist will ensure they are removing only dead or dying limbs while trimming back any healthy branches to avoid roof damage.
3. Keep the Roof Clear of Leaves and Debris
Leaves and debris can build up on your roof, especially after a significant storm. Remove any buildup when it’s safe to do so. Clean gutters and downspouts with a garden hose to ensure they’re working correctly. Leaving debris on your roof can lead to early shingle deterioration that requires costly repairs, so stay proactive with this maintenance step.
4. Repair Missing or Damage Shingles
Repairing missing or damaged shingles will help prevent leaks and rot, which can cause mold to grow under your shingles. If you notice broken or missing shingles, contact your roofing company immediately for repairs. Since this damage is progressive, acting quickly at the first sign of shingle damage is vital.
5. Check the Flashing
Check the flashing around chimneys and skylights. Water damage from a leaking roof often starts at the flashing, which is used to divert water away from your structure. If you notice any signs of moisture or discoloration, it’s best to call a plumber as soon as possible.
6. Schedule Routine Chimney Inspections
Although it’s not an immediate priority, scheduling routine chimney inspections are a good idea. Chimneys are an extension of your roof and can easily be damaged by severe weather conditions. When left untreated, they can lead to shingle deterioration and significant water damage. Hire a professional to check for cracks, broken bricks, and other signs of damage. If you notice any loose or damaged chimney bricks, call a professional immediately for help. If you want to read more about why hiring a professional roofer is important, check out our article 5 Reasons you Should Not DIY Your Roof.
7. Schedule a Yearly Inspection
Of course, you can typically check your roof for damage. Still, scheduling an annual inspection is important to extending the life of your shingles. Professional roofers can help clean and maintain your roof, identifying minor issues early on to avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance can also prevent many problems from happening in the first place.
Contact T2K Roofing for Your Roofing Needs
Your roof is an investment you want to last for a long time. You can extend the life of your roof by taking the proper steps to maintain your roof. If you’re in the Temple area and you’re looking for a residential roofing contractor, contact our experts at T2K Roofing today to schedule your annual inspection.
