Roofing Resolutions: Roof Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Roof in Good Shape All Year

Do you feel like you’re always dealing with some roof issue?

It’s tough when you feel like everything tends to go wrong. Roof leaks, curling shingles, torn or clogged gutters, and more are roofing issues that can all lead to worse and more structural damages that require drastic—and expensive—repairs.

Don’t panic.

We’re here to help you with regular roof maintenance tips to keep your roof in tip-top shape and avoid more extreme problems.

The Importance of Roof Maintenance

As every Charlotte homeowner knows, there’s a lot of maintenance that goes along with owning a home. The roof is just one of the many things you’ll have to keep an eye on, and it’s one of the most important aspects of the home. It does a big job keeping you safe, warm, and dry, so showing a little love to it is a great way to start the year off right.

Here are five tips for Charlotte homeowners we’ve put together as one of the area’s premier roofing contractors. Follow these roof maintenance steps to make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your roof in good shape all year.

Get Your Roof Inspected Regularly

The best way to keep your roof in tip-top shape is to have a roof inspection done regularly. 

Roof inspections uncover minor damage or other issues before they get serious, which can save you money. And having your roof inspected by professionals a couple of times a year gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re taking care of your most significant investment – your home.

Roof Inspection Options

• Visual Inspection: This is a basic inspection where you visually examine the roof from ground level or from a ladder if it’s safe to do so. Look for signs of damage, missing or curled shingles, cracked flashing, and debris.
• Professional Inspection: Hiring a qualified roofing contractor or inspector is the most comprehensive way to assess your roof’s condition. They can access the roof safely and have the experience to identify issues that might be missed during a visual inspection.

Don’t Forget to Document Damages

Keep records of your roof inspections, including notes, photographs, and dates. This documentation can be useful for tracking changes over time and can be valuable when working with roofing professionals or filing insurance claims.

Inspect Shingles

It’s a homeowner’s responsibility to ensure that damaged or missing shingles are repaired or replaced as quickly as possible so that water doesn’t seep underneath, causing mold, mildew, and wood rot.

If left unattended, algae and moss may also start growing underneath loose shingles, leading to further roof damage. Charlotte contractors who specialize in premier roofing can inspect the roof for you and make suggestions about what needs to be done.

Common Shingle Damages

1. Curling: Shingle curling occurs when the edges of the shingles turn upward or downward. This is typically caused by prolonged exposure to UV rays, moisture, or aging. Curling shingles can allow water to infiltrate underneath them, leading to leaks and further damage.
2. Buckling: Shingle buckling is the warping or distortion of shingles, which can create visible ridges or waves. Buckling can result from factors like improper installation, inadequate ventilation, or excessive moisture beneath the shingles.
3. Blistering: Blistering appears as small bubbles or raised areas on the surface of asphalt shingles. It’s often caused by trapped moisture or the release of volatile compounds from the shingles. Blistered shingles can be more vulnerable to damage and may lose granules over time.

Keep The Roof Clean

Make an effort to keep the roof as clean as possible. This is a key aspect of roof maintenance, getting acquainted with your roof, and spotting damages right away.

Remove any debris that’s fallen and wash the roof off if you can. If you notice any moss or algae growth, give the roof a quick cleaning with a solution of water and chlorine bleach. If you’re not comfortable getting up on your roof – and it can be very dangerous – call in local roofing experts to do it for you.

Methods of Roof Cleaning

• Soft Washing: Soft washing is a gentle and effective method that uses low-pressure water mixed with environmentally friendly cleaning agents to remove stains, moss, and algae. This method is less likely to damage roofing materials compared to high-pressure washing.
• High-Pressure Washing: High-pressure washing, also known as power washing, involves the use of pressurized water to remove debris and organic matter. While it can be effective, it can also damage roofing materials if not used carefully and should be done by professionals with experience in roof cleaning.
• Chemical Treatments: Some roof cleaners use chemical treatments specifically designed to kill algae and prevent regrowth. These treatments are often applied after cleaning.

Maintain Your Gutters

Gutters need a little maintenance, too. Keep your gutters cleaned out and clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up underneath the roof, resulting in moisture-related problems such as water stains and mildew. Inspect your gutters regularly to make sure they’re firmly attached to the roof. Hanging gutters can cause the fascia to pull away from the roof, which also lets moisture in.

Key Gutter Maintenance Tasks

• Removing Debris: During cleaning, remove leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris that may have accumulated in the gutters. Clogs can prevent proper water flow and lead to overflow or damage.
• Checking Downspouts: Ensure that downspouts are also clear of obstructions. Use a garden hose to flush out any debris or buildup within the downspouts.
• Gutter Guards: Installing gutter guards or leaf screens can help minimize debris buildup in the gutters, reducing the frequency of cleaning. There are various types of gutter guards available, including mesh screens, foam inserts, and solid covers. Choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Mature trees in the backyard may be aesthetically pleasing, but falling branches can do a number on your roof. One of the first steps in maintaining your roof is to trim branches back away from the house.

Not only does this help alleviate the possibility that a falling branch will damage your shingles, but it also helps keep small branches and leaves from clogging your gutters. If you don’t feel comfortable trimming the branches yourself, hire a professional to do it.

And when storms come rolling through, make sure you call for residential storm damage cleanup for your Charlotte home. The cleanup will probably involve downed branches. (About Arborist)

Roof Inspections Are Where Maintenance Starts

If you’re looking for help keeping your roof in shape, it’s crucial to either get up close to your roof yourself or contact a licensed and insured professional. Whether you’re a DIYer or more hands-off, it’s important to be aware of your home and roof’s needs.

Looking for the right contractors to call?

Roof Medic proudly serves the greater Charlotte area. We offer premium roofing services and craftsmanship as well as free roof inspections to homeowners throughout the Charlotte area.

Get in touch today to schedule yours!