A roof can last for decades if properly cared for, but those years add up quickly, which is why your roof’s lifespan can end up being only 10-15 years. And that means you need to be conscientious about the cost of a new roof and the more subtle costs associated with not maintaining it. There are aspects you can do to extend the life of your roof, though. If you maintain it and do a few simple things regularly and occasionally, you can stretch that 15-year roof into a 20-year one. Here are five ways to help your roof last longer:
1. Avoid Power-Washing roofing Shingles
It is critical to avoid power washing your roof since it can remove the protective layer that prevents mold from growing on your roof, leaving it vulnerable to physical damage and decay. After a storm, you may not locate buckets or brooms for days or weeks, making it tempting for homeowners with a roofing issue to power wash their roofs to clean them up quicker. However, doing so can cause more harm than good in the long run. It is best for anyone who wants their roof lasting in great shape well into the future if they just try using other methods like scrubbing manually instead of risking it by using power washers or pressure cleaners. That is why roof repair specialists prefer a flat roof scrubbing machine. Heavy-duty rubber blades attached to a 6-meter (20 feet) pole gently scour the surface of your roof without damaging it. The scrubbing machine uses no water and leaves no soap residue, so it does not wash off any of your next layer of asphalt or essential oils applied as part of the waterproofing process.
2. Unclog Gutters
If you have a problem with old, rotted, or leaking roofing shingles on your home’s roof, it might be time to start thinking about your next step. One thing that many homeowners overlook when their shingles are causing a problem is how clogged gutters can exacerbate the issue. Clogged gutters, even those blocked by leaves and plant matter rather than ice and snow (the most common cause of this condition), can lead to leaks within your roof because they prevent water from reaching the drainage holes.
While a clean gutter is critical for keeping your roofing material dry, having the right gutter-cleaning equipment is equally vital. That can vary depending on where you live and the steps you have taken to keep your roof healthy. For instance, if you are in an area that frequently experiences freezing temperatures during winter, you might need to purchase a heavy-duty snow blower. That will clear your gutters of ice and snow before they can freeze and damage your roofing shingles.
A clogged gutter will not automatically lead to roof leaks but will make them more likely to occur. You should have your roof inspected once a year, and you will likely spend a lot of money fixing it if you do not properly maintain it. If you want to prevent roof leaks from occurring in the first place, keep your gutter clean and clear.
3. Have a good attic insulation
Roofs are expensive to replace; after years of good work, your roof may be due for replacement. One way to keep your roof lasting longer is with proper attic insulation. Attic insulation has two significant benefits: it helps retain heat in the winter months, saves energy bills, and increases air quality by trapping moisture and preventing mold growth. If your roof is older than 20 years, you may want to consider adding attic insulation. It is usually a simple process that can be done yourself. It is critical to install enough insulation to fill in all gaps and voids. That will increase the longevity of your roof by keeping out moisture, thus preventing mold growth, which weakens your roof every time it rains. Be sure your attic has at least R-38 insulation for optimal protection and energy efficiency.
After you have installed insulation, it is best to have a professional test the levels to be sure they are as high as they should be. That ensures that your home stays comfortable during cold winter and that heating bills remain manageable. You can also prevent costly repairs to your roof by installing too much attic insulation. If you install too little, you will not get the full benefits of a well-insulated roof. If you want your attic insulation to last for years, it is best to have an annual inspection to look for gaps or worn material so that any problems can be addressed immediately.
4. Keep Leaves, Moss, and Mold Off Your Roof
Most people know that leaves, moss, and mold can cause problems for their roofs. Not only do they make the roof look ugly, but they also can cause severe damage to the shingles on your roof. Leaves act as a weight that weighs your shingles down and, most of the time, will break them off. Moss is a fungus that grows in moist or damp environments and spreads quickly in dry areas. Mold grows when moisture is present because it can grow better with humidity than dryness, so if you have any leaky spots in your home, it will grow there first. The best way to keep leaves, moss, and mold from getting on your roof is to clean the roof regularly. Make sure that no leaves or moss grows on your roof’s surface because this will eventually lead to other problems with your roofing material. Also, try keeping lawn care professionals on hand to inspect your roof for any dangerous layers of mold. They should be able to tell you how often you need to clean off your roofs so that it does not become covered in mildew or leaves.
5. Proper Ventilation
Your roof is a large portion of your home’s exterior. It can also get quite hot, especially in the summer. With poor ventilation, these temperatures can build up and cause your roof to lose its water and stain resistance. Make sure to clean off any dead plants or trees that could block vents and create a buildup of heat underneath your roof. You can also switch out Technonicol asphalt-shingle roofs with clay or concrete tile if you live in an area prone to heat or humidity problems along with storms and high winds. As seen here, these roofs are more resistant to high temperatures and winds. You should also ensure no cracks or fissures in your roof structure or shingles.
No matter where you live, your roof is one of the most critical areas of your house. It protects you from rain, snow, and other inclement weather, prevents leaks in your home, and generally keeps everything fresh and clean. As the main line of defense against these potentially damaging elements, keeping your roof in an appropriate condition for an extended period is critical.
