Homeowners often need to recognize that roof maintenance goes beyond cleaning gutters. Regular roof maintenance helps its lifespan. Some DIY hacks can extend the life of your roof. Minor repairs now can save you money in the future and help you avoid a costly roof replacement. Follow these maintenance tips to secure your lifetime investment.

8 Valuable Roof Maintenance Tips

Wash your roof

Your roof can become discolored with streaks that run from the peak to the shingles over time. Algae growth is indicated by discoloration. Heavy rains can cause damp shingles, which may lead to algae and mold. In order to prevent it, wash your roof with a mixture of soft-wash soaps to clean and prevent future algae growth. Avoid power washing your roof, as it can cause water and mold damage by spraying water under shingles and soffits.

Do a visual inspection of the roof.

After the winter months, spring cleaning and landscaping can be the ideal time to inspect your roof. Check your roof for signs of damage by simply looking at it from the ground. Signs of roof damage, such as loose shingles, cracked shingles, dark spots, and failing flashing, can be seen from the ground. Inspect your roof shingles to ensure they're in good condition. 

Clean Out the Gutters

Gutters are essential for keeping your roof clean, dry, and debris-free. Gutters and downspouts are critical to protecting your home from the elements and insulating it. Clogged gutters stop rainwater from draining. Excess water can cause leaks in your attic due to ice dams or standing water. The damage could be immense, potentially requiring expensive repairs or a complete roof replacement.

Trim overhanging trees

Trim large trees near your home to avoid clogged gutters. Leaves and seeds from nearby trees can still blow onto and clog your drains. Branches can easily cause roof damage in high winds and storms and require a complete roof replacement. Trimming trees is more cost-effective than fixing roof damage caused by large branches. Fewer debris results in less gutter cleaning - something we can all agree on.

Check for leaks in the attic.

Check for leaks in your attic to avoid getting on the roof. Check your attic for signs of water damage and leaks. Check the attic floor for any discoloration or dark spots. Insulation can become deflated, wet, or moldy due to roof leaks. Musty odors may be present, indicating a high moisture level in the attic. Poor attic ventilation can lead to moisture buildup and musty smells. Poor ventilation can cause water damage and costly repairs, so it's essential to ensure your roof and attic are properly ventilated.

Ensure proper insulation & ventilation.

Your roof protects your home from the weather and keeps it at a comfortable temperature. A well-insulated and ventilated roof will maintain your home's warmth in winter and coolness in summer. If roof vents are clogged or cracked, it results in poor ventilation, moisture buildup, and loss of heating/cooling efficiency. Consider adding or replacing vents for improved ventilation if you're dealing with moisture in your attic. Consider adding insulation to solve the issue. An annual inspection can detect any inadequate insulation, broke vents, or damaged roof flashing due to moisture levels in the attic.

Patch your chimney

Your chimney is likely to be the most prone to heat loss and leakage if you have one. Loose bricks or mortar cracking on the exterior of your home can cause shingle damage. Flashing around chimneys can easily crack, causing water to leak into the attic or walls. 

Keeping up with roof maintenance

Follow these tips to ensure your roof is kept in good condition and lasts for years. Regular inspections are essential to prevent premature roof replacement. 
For more information, you can reach Watkins Construction and Roofing at 601-488-3179. We service areas in Jackson, Flowood, Clinton, and Ridgeland, MS.