The cost of replacing your entire roof can be high. While many homeowners will have to replace or repair their roofs at some point, you can delay or minimize the amount of work that has to be done by performing regular roof maintenance. Here are a few steps to get you started:
#1 – Clean your shingles
Cleaning your shingles can get rid of dirt, algae, moss, and other contaminants that can degrade the quality of your roof. Take a good look at your roof during the spring and summer months. If you see any dirt, moss, or other contaminants growing on the shingles, then get it properly treated to get rid of and prevent further growth.
#2 – Trim branches
As you’re inspecting your roof for dirt or moss, be sure to also check on any trees that are growing alongside your home. Branches that hang too close to your roof can fall and cause damage to your home. They can also cause leaves to collect on top of your roof, trapping in moisture and resulting in mold or rot in your tiles.
#3 – Clean out the gutters
Clogged gutters are more than an annoyance; they can also cause water to accumulate around your roof. If that water gets in under your shingles, it can cause mold, rot, and other forms of water damage to your home.
#4 – Prevent ice dams
Here in Buffalo, one of the major concerns that homeowners have to deal with are ice dams. This is where ice builds up on roofs, slopping over the edges and preventing snow from melting and draining off of the roof. When this happens, water will accumulate around your roof, leaking into your home. The best way to prevent ice dams is to properly insulate your home so that the roof is the same temperature as the outside air.
These tips should be able to extend the life of your roof, but no matter what, any roof will need some kind of repairs. When that happens, contact Ivy Lea Construction to see how we can help.
