Roof maintenance is critical to keeping your home in good condition. An annual inspection can help you catch potential problems before they become major, more expensive issues. Follow this annual roof maintenance checklist to help keep your roof in good shape.
Annual Roof Maintenance: Check for Shingle Damage
Check for missing or broken roofing shingles. Over time, sun, wind, and rain cause shingles to become cracked, curled, or broken. If not repaired, deteriorating shingles can leak and lead to water damage and mold growth.
To check for damage to your shingles, inspect them from the ground with a pair of binoculars. Look for any warped, missing, or loose materials. If you notice any issues, call a qualified roofer to make repairs.
Inspect the Gutters & Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts play an important role in keeping your roof in good condition. They collect and redirect rainwater away from your home, which can help to prevent leaks and other damage.
As part of your annual roof maintenance, clean the gutters and inspect them and the downspouts for signs of damage or blockages. If you notice holes or rust on the gutters, have them repaired as soon as possible. Hire a pro to install gutter guards to keep the channels free of leaves, twigs, and other debris.
Trim Trees Near Your Roof
Trees are a beautiful addition to your property but can seriously threaten your roof. Overhanging branches can damage your shingles or cause costly repairs if they fall on the house.
Trim branches that overhang the roof to prevent damage to your roof and keep the structure and materials in good condition.
Remove Debris as Part of Annual Roof Maintenance
Dirt, dust, and other debris build up on your roof over time, leading to leaks and premature shingle deterioration. As part of roof maintenance, remove debris, including leaves, tree limbs, branches, and animal nests.
There are a few different ways to clean your roof. For smaller homes, you may be able to do it yourself with a garden hose. For a larger roof, hire a professional roof cleaning company for the best results.
Inspect the Attic as Part of Your Annual Roof Maintenance
Your attic is another essential part of your roofing system, and it’s important to inspect. Dark streaks on the building materials might indicate leaks, water damage, or mold. If you detect issues, call a professional to inspect the roof.
While in the attic, check the insulation to verify it’s still in good condition. Over time, insulation can settle and become compressed, which reduces its effectiveness. Replacing the insulation helps you manage the temperature inside your home and can help reduce the humidity that forms inside the attic.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
While you can do a lot to maintain your roof on your own, some things are best for professionals. A yearly roof inspection can find problems that you may overlook.
Hire a qualified roofing contractor to inspect the roof. They will check for signs of damage and make repairs as needed. An experienced roofer can also provide valuable advice on keeping the roof in good condition.
Yearly maintenance is essential to keep your home in good condition. The roofing protects your family, belongings, and home from the weather. By taking care of your roof, you help prolong the life of the materials and avoid costly repairs down the road.
PRIME Home Inspections provides inspections in western Washington state. Contact us to request our services.