Roof repairs can have a significant impact on your finances. Sometimes, a roof that does not receive the appropriate fixes can deteriorate to the point where you have to put a whole new roof on your home, at a significant cost. There are, however, less expensive ways to extend the life of your roof and uphold the look and performance of your house – Roof maintenance. Here is a look at some of the most important residential roofing maintenance tasks you should complete on a regular basis.

Get your roof inspected periodically

While it is easy to take your roof for granted, this essential home feature is responsible for keeping the weather and wet out of your residence. Keep a close eye on it with regular inspections. The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends completing this task twice a year – In the fall and the spring.

However, you should check up on the condition of your roof NO LESS than once a year, and after every major weather event. Did you suffer through a hurricane? Hear hail pelting your roof? Hunker down through an ice or windstorm? Get your roof inspected to make sure that all the shingles are still in good condition. Here are some things you (Or the professional you consult) should look for:

• Cracked shingles
• Missing shingles
• Water damage
• Broken flashing

Ideally, a professional who can get up on the roof and look around is the best option. Sometimes, it is difficult to see damage from the ground, and an up-close look can catch problems before they necessitate a full roof replacement.

Clean your gutters at least once a year

Your gutters are a pipeline that drives water off your roof and away from your home. If they become blocked with leaves, branches, or dirt, water from storms will quickly back up and overflow, causing damage to your shingles. Keeping your gutters free of debris will prevent these problems, giving your shingles more time in tip-top shape.

Many homeowners opt to clean out their gutters themselves using a hose or a leaf blower. Others hire professionals to come by regularly to keep things free of dirt or debris. Whether you do the job yourself or hire it out, make sure that the gutters are also inspected for any leaks or damage at the same time they are cleaned.

Your home may not require gutter cleaning more than once a year. However, if you live near a wooded area or notice your gutters filling up frequently, you may need to consider a 6-month schedule to keep everything in good condition. You should also keep an eye out for branches or leaves sitting on your roof and remove those promptly when you notice them.

Cut back overhanging branches

Lots of trees around your home can do more than drop needles and leaves in your gutters. They can also grow onto your roof, where they can scratch your shingles. As a result, they can expose your roof to water damage and even rot. In addition, wet leaves and branches can also cause lingering dampness, which can contribute to the loss of your shingles.

When cutting back overhanging branches, go for more than just making sure they do not touch your roof. Branches should sit 6–10 feet away from your roof so that they can blow in the wind without touching your roof. As a bonus, this distance will also discourage pests from traveling from tree limbs onto your roof and potentially into your attic and home.

Repair issues as soon as they occur

Sometimes, your roof inspections or gutter cleaning will reveal minor issues. It can be tempting to “save money” by not completing these repairs promptly. However, neglecting these issues is likely to lead to bigger problems that end up costing you more money or requiring a roof replacement.

Save money in the long run by taking care of small problems as soon as you are aware of them. Ideally, you should hire a professional roofer to help you fix these problems. At Phoenix Roofing & Solar, we specialize in both shingle and tile roof repairs, and we bring a century of experience to the handling of every roof we repair and replace. Let us provide you with the quality support you need to stay on top of your roof maintenance and repairs.

Remove moss and other growths from your roof

If you notice moss, mold, or algae growing on your roof, it is time to take action to save your shingles. These growths can, first, indicate the presence of moisture, such as from a leak in your roof. You will need to get your roof inspected to rule out an issue that needs repair.

In addition, growth on your roof can weaken your shingles, causing them to curl and leaving them susceptible to the next storm. Protect your home from weather-related damage by spraying these areas with a chlorine solution and then power washing it away.

Choose professional maintenance for your roof

Many of these maintenance tips can be completed on your own. However, before you DIY your roof maintenance, consider the difference that professional help can make. Will it cost you a little more than doing the work yourself? Most likely. However, you will reap benefits for your pocketbook, yourself and your home. Here are some of the advantages an expert can offer:

• Less risk to yourself from climbing up on the roof
• Knowledgeable inspections
• Years or decades of experience with all kinds of roofs
• Thorough and high-quality repairs
• Longer-lasting roof

If you want to maximize the amount of time you have to enjoy your roof, use Phoenix Roofing & Solar for assistance with inspections, repairs, and replacements. We have 3 generations of experience behind us, so we know how to identify, and repair, problems before they become money-sucking issues. And, when it is time for a roof replacement, we are available with the options, the insights, and the expertise you need to get the perfect roof for your home.