Most roofs have a fairly long life expectancy. While certain materials definitely last longer than others, they all have quite a few years of service life when properly installed and maintained. Because roofing is so expensive, homeowners should do everything possible to slow the aging process. To get the longest life from a current roof installation, homeowners should follow the helpful tips below offered by experienced roof repair companies.
Arrange Periodic Inspections
The key to keeping a roof in its best condition and lengthening its life is good observation and regular inspections. Besides keeping an eye out on their own, homeowners should arrange for a professional inspection by an experienced roof repair company every year or two. Professional installers know about all different types of material and where to look for potential problems.
With regular and routine inspections, it will be easier to prevent damage that can promote aging. Inspections should include observation of everything from the surface material itself to attic spaces, vents, gutters and downspouts. Roofers should look walk around the entire circumference of the house while looking for evidence of damage, leaks, or other problems.
Provide Proper Maintenance
Some roofs require almost no maintenance, while others require quite a bit. To reduce aging, keep up with any necessary repairs and all items that wear out, like loose or missing flashing. Ensure there is adequate ventilation and check for damage after storms.
Materials that require occasional treatment with paint, UV coatings, or sealants should be taken care of as recommended to preserve these protective layers. Be sure to follow any maintenance suggestions provided by material manufacturers to ensure the roof receives the care needed to stay in good condition.
Keep It Clean
Dirt, debris, and growing vegetation can also cause roofs to age prematurely. Do everything possible to keep the surface free of any debris and if necessary, hire a cleaner to scrub the surface if mold or mildew is present. Keep trees trimmed so branches are away from the house and most importantly, keep gutters clean. Dirty and clogged gutters can cause a number of serious problems that can very quickly age a roof or cause enough damage that it is no longer waterproof.
Quickly Address Repair Issues
Time is the enemy when it comes to roof repair. Even though it might be tempting to ignore smaller concerns that do not seem very serious, it is these smaller issues that can very quickly turn into problems that cause a lot of damage. Whether a problem is discovered by homeowners or by a roofing expert, the issue must be properly corrected. Waiting and hoping that a problem will not get worse is an invitation for damage that can age the roof more quickly than it should.
Learn to Recognize Problems
Based on the suggestions referenced above about seeking prompt repair when any concerns are discovered, homeowners must learn to recognize issues that demand immediate attention. Loose or missing flashing, small leaks noticed inside the home, or missing shingles or panels are the more obvious concerns to look for. Less obvious concerns include shingles that bubble, ones with curling edges, those that are cracked, split, peeling, or chipped, and any that are losing their protective gravel coating.
Roofs are one of the most important, and expensive parts of a home. Although they do not last forever, there is no reason why homeowners should not expect to get a full service life from their current installation with the right attention. To protect roofs from aging prematurely, be sure they are inspected and maintained as suggested by expert roof repair companies and arrange for any required repairs as quickly as possible. Proper inspection and maintenance will allow homeowners to get their money’s worth from their installation and help ensure they have to deal with as few problems as possible!
