Tips to Increase the Lifespan of Your Roof
Regular maintenance can add years to the life of your roof. It can also prevent the need for a complete roof replacement. Below are some tips from professional roofers in Traverse City, MI for increasing the lifespan of your roof.
Clean and maintain gutters
One main cause of roof leaks is clogged gutters. If your gutters are clogged with debris, rainwater cannot flow out and away from your house or building. The water has nowhere to go but up onto the edge of the roof, where it pools and slowly deteriorates the structure. Cleaning out your gutters should theoretically be simple enough to do, but it can be messy and challenging. Be sure to stay safe when using a ladder. Are your gutters high up on a multistory house? For safety’s sake, contact a local roofer to do the job.
Ventilate the attic
You might be wondering what attic ventilation has to do with the lifespan of your roof. Well, having proper ventilation in the attic means cool air can enter the space and hot, humid air can escape. Ventilation is important because too much moisture in the attic will cause mold to grow and spread. Mold can damage both attic insulation material and your home’s roof. To properly ventilate the attic, you need soffit vents installed near the lower portion of the attic space, as well as roof vents placed at the highest part of the attic.
Clear nearby debris and branches
Trees planted near your house are great for natural shade and curb appeal. However, tree leaves are the most common type of rooftop debris that collects along roof valleys. The leaves that don’t fall of the roof end up trapping moisture between them and the roof. Wet leaves could also get caught in the gutters, clogging them over time.
The less damage and wear your roof has, the longer it will stay in good condition. Unfortunately, nearby tree branches pose a serious threat to roofs. Threats include everything from overhanging branches swaying back and forth and scraping shingles to a branch of any size falling on top of your roof. Trim nearby tree branches and your roof may last longer.
Add insulation
Roofing shingles absorb heat. This means that interior spaces will heat up if your attic is not properly insulated. When adding or replacing attic insulation, make sure you don’t block the vents with the material. Call an insulation expert for help if you are unsure of the type and amount of insulation you need. Doing it right can increase your home’s energy efficiency and keep your roof working hard for longer.
Get an annual roof inspection
When it comes to roofing care and maintenance, there’s a lot that homeowners can do, but annual professional inspections play a huge role in preventative roof maintenance. An experienced roofer knows what to look for, will tell you if you have any roofing problems and can offer tips for extending the life of your roof.
If you want to hire professional roofers in Traverse City, MI, don’t hesitate to contact Qualified Roofing. Call us anytime!
Categorised in: Roofer