One of the best ways to avoid needing to replace one’s roof is to practice effective preventative maintenance. We see many roofs that require a total overhaul only because they deteriorated quickly from a lack of proper upkeep.
Don’t let that happen to you. Follow these helpful tips and keep your roof in top condition for years to come.
Understanding Roof Basics
Residential roof maintenance largely involves having an understanding of these components: the roof style, materials, and handling leaks. Once you know that, troubleshooting problems will become much more intuitive.
Roof Styles
Roofs come in several styles, including pitched, sloped, and forked.
- Sloped: Sloped roofs usually have shingles that need replacing (especially following a Florida hurricane). However, they can also sustain damage to the eaves (edges of the roof) and gables (triangle spots at the end of the roof).
- Pitched: These require more frequent maintenance. You’ll have to keep track of shingles, gutters, eaves, gables, and rooflines. If anything is clogged with debris or filthy with algae/mold, you’ll want to address it.
- Flat: Flat roofs have fewer gravitational problems, so they’re simpler to inspect. It mostly amounts to addressing leaks and watching for vent/chimney flashing, which are often the same type of problem.
Roof Materials
For the purposes of this discussion, we’ll focus on three common roof materials: asphalt/shingles, metal, and tile.
- Asphalt/Shingles: Shingles are the most affordable option, but you need to keep an eye on them, especially following multiple wind storms.
- Metal: While you might not like the noise you get from the rain, a metal roof is pretty durable. You can get more than a few decades out of them and they require minimal upkeep. Unfortunately, sheet metal is not a cheap material.
- Tile: Tile is even more durable than metal and equally resistant to fire and hail. It costs the most, though.
Addressing Leaks
Leaks are the ultimate bane to the life of your roof. Make sure your attic, chimney, and other vents possess proper ventilation. Moisture destroys everything from doors to window sills, siding, and, of course, roofs.
If it’s a small leak, you can probably patch it up with some caulk or roof cement. Be careful not to overextend yourself, however. When in doubt, call the pros at Simpson Construction & Roofing for help with major tasks.
6 Ways to Maintain Your Roof
Also, remember these six helpful habits for handling roof problems.
- Inspect often for any leaks, loose materials, or distortions.
- Don’t delay in making the repairs (things get worse).
- Try to avoid encroachment from trees and other landscaping.
- Promptly remove all debris and foreign material from gutters.
- Using a sealant or caulk, seal away all cracks/holes in your roof.
- Consult the services of Simpson Construction to inspect your roof.
Simpson Construction & Roofing specializes in roofs, windows, siding, and more. If you need help determining whether to replace a roof, then we’re glad to help you with an inspection and free quote. Call us to learn anything about roofing at 863-658-4869 or fill out the form below!
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