The roof is a critical part of the house and protects it from weather elements, contributes to curb appeal, influences energy efficiency, and affects the house's resale value. Your roof will benefit you the most if you take good care of it. Unfortunately, many first-time homeowners do not understand roof maintenance basics.
The following tips should help you take care of the roof as a new homeowner.
1. Embrace Both DIY and Professional Services
You do not have to call the roofing contractor every time you need to do something on the roof. You just have to know which direction to take for each roofing service. For example, always call a professional roofing contractor if:
- The work is dangerous, such as if it involves going up the roof and you don't have safety gear
- You don't have the relevant equipment and tools
- The work requires specialist knowledge
Some roof maintenance services require regular DIY work and occasional professional work. For example, regularly walk around the house and inspect the roof for damage, especially after storms. However, a professional roof inspection is also necessary at least once a year.
2. Keep the Roof CleanRegular roof cleaning is one of the most critical roof maintenance services. Debris will damage your roof irrespective of the roofing material. For example, roof debris:
- Attracts pests that damage other roofs
- Retains moisture that deteriorates and corrodes roofing materials
- Encourages mold and algae growth that deface the roof and retain moisture
- Interferes with roof drainage
Keep the roof clean with these tips:
- Trim overhanging branches around the house.
- Clean the roof regularly.
- Replace damaged roof materials that might break off and damage other parts of the roof.
Professional roof cleaning will remove the debris without damaging the roof.
3. Have a Professional Roofer on Speed Dial
Research and choose a roofing contractor you can reach quickly if you need help. Do not wait until a roofing emergency or need arises before you begin searching for a contractor. For example, you may need a roofing contractor fast if a tree crashes on your roof and the weathercast has predicted rainfall.
Research a good contractor with these tips:
- Focus on roofers in your area for affordability and a fast response.
- Read reviews or customer feedback for your prospective contractors.
- Ensure your chosen contractor has the requisite insurance and license.
Always compare quotes for major roofing services before settling on one.
4. Pay Special Attention to Trouble Spots
Some parts of the roof are more troublesome than others. Understand these parts and pay special attention to them to spot emerging problems. Examples of such trouble spots might include:
- Roof valleys that handle a lot of water, debris, and snow compared to other parts of the roof
- Roof gutters that handle all the debris and water that slide down the roof
- Roof penetrations that interrupt the roof's continuity and have higher risks of leaks than other parts
Talk to your contractor about these issues during inspections.
5. Understand Your RoofLastly, the threats your roof faces, the maintenance services it requires, and the frequency of the maintenance depends on the roof. For example:
- Flat and low-pitched roofs face higher risks of leaks than pitched roofs
- Tile roofs are more likely to crack than metal roofs
- Asphalt shingles might fail sooner than tile roofs
Understand your roof to take good care of it.
Cal Roofing Systems Inc. offers residential and commercial roofing services. We have offered roofing installation and maintenance services since 1988.
Contact us
for quotes on all your roofing needs, and enjoy our professionalism. We look forward to helping you!
