There’s little doubt that a new roof is a crowning glory on every home. And, it has a critical job to do – keep your home safe, and your family shielded from the elements. But, as with everything manufactured, it needs care and maintenance to get the most out of the investment and extend its lifespan.
Many of today’s modern roofing systems can last anywhere between two to five decades with proper care. The reason is that these roofing materials get manufactured with much longer lifespans in mind and weather the elements better than materials previously available to homeowners and roofing contractors.
Follow Warranty Guidelines
The best way to preserve a new roof is to follow the manufacturer’s warranty guidelines. Doing so will guarantee the most extended lifespan, but it’ll also protect your warranty if anything goes wrong.
Most warranties offer protection against defects or quality for a set amount of time after the initial installation. However, these timeframes can vary by material or manufacturer and material type.
Keep It Clean
Among the simplest ways to maintain your roof and prevent premature deterioration is to clean it. Roofing systems move water away from the structure, but they can only do this effectively if they’re clear of debris.
Don’t overlook the eaves and gutter system, an integral part of the roofing system. Keep the gutters or eavestroughs clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure water runoff moves freely to the ground and away from your home.
Keep Trees Trimmed
If your home is on a wooded area or lot, it’s essential to keep trees trimmed back and away from your roof. Overhanging branches can fall off and damage your roofing system, especially during high winds.
Ideally, branches and limbs should be at least eight feet away from your home to minimize the risk of falling debris impacting your roof. Take care to remove any limbs that hand directly over your home to remove this threat.
Inspect Regularly
You should inspect your roof annually or semi-annually for damage, missing shingles, leaks, or other damage. Ideal times for roof inspections are in the spring after the winter weather clears and again in the fall before winter weather arrives.
Other times when inspecting your roof is a good idea include after a bad storm. Weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, hail, sleet, snow, and ice, can damage shingles, tiles, and other roofing components.
Be sure to also check the attic for signs of damage or leaks. Water stains, wood rot, and other signs of water damage can all indicate a problem with your roof.
Use Sealant As Needed
Roofing sealant provides a flexible and fast fix for leaks and cracks in your roof. Homeowners can use it to seal around chimneys, vents stacks, skylights, and other roof openings or the flashing surrounding them.
You’ll prevent water from damaging your attic space and creating a significant mold and mildew growth issue by sealing these areas. Mold and mildew can cause severe respiratory problems for people in your home, so keeping these areas closed and dry is essential.
Check Roof Ventilation
Roof ventilation plays an essential role in maintaining the health of your roof. It helps prevent moisture build-up that can lead to rot, mold, and mildew.
It additionally helps to regulate the temperature in your attic space, which can help to prolong the lifespan of your roof.
The Importance of Roof Maintenance and Proactive Roof Care
Your roof is an integral part of your home, and it needs to be correctly maintained to keep it in good condition. By following the manufacturer’s warranty guidelines and being proactive with regular inspections and cleaning, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of investing in a new roof for many years to come. Other notable benefits include:
Boost Curb Appeal And Sustain Home Value – A new roof can boost your home value and boost curb appeal. Check out a few pictures to see the difference a new roof can make. For homeowners thinking about selling their residence, a new roof can pay off in the long run.
Protect Your Investment – A new roof shouldn’t require constant repairs, but if you don’t take care of it properly, there’s a good chance that you’ll be spending money on routine maintenance or even replacing it sooner than expected. On the other hand, with proper care, a good-quality roof will last for many years, protecting your home and everyone who lives there.
Reduce Utility Costs – A new roof can be a great way to help reduce the cost of heating and cooling your home. In addition to keeping out the elements and providing better insulation, a new roof can improve HVAC system efficiency, resulting in more predictable energy bills.
Maintain Peace Of Mind – A new roof can help you sleep better at night, knowing that your home and everything inside is well-protected. Whether it’s a severe storm or heavy snowfall, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your roof can stand the rigors of nature.
Keep Your Home Healthy With Roof Maintenance
A dry home is essential to everyone’s health and well-being, and your roof can play a significant role in helping you maintain the perfect humidity levels. In addition, the proper roofing maintenance will help protect against the moisture damage that can compromise the sanctuary of your home and indoor air quality.
By regularly inspecting and cleaning your roof, you can avoid many problems that can lead to a shortened lifespan. In addition, by being proactive with your maintenance, you can identify potential issues before they cause significant damage.
Do you have more questions about a new roofing system? Please contact us and get in touch with our friendly and helpful staff. We’re happy to schedule a free consultation or provide an estimate for professional roofing services in Newton, Wellesley, Dover, Hingham, Norwell, Needham, Cohasset, and Scituate.