As a homeowner, taking steps to protect your most valuable asset is crucial. For example, your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, so being proactive about maintenance and care is key to prolonging its lifespan.
Flynn Roofing has proudly worked with homeowners in Massachusetts for decades, so we know a thing about keeping roofs in top condition. Here are our top maintenance tips to help you extend the life of your roof:
Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Inspect your roof regularly for damages, such as missing or damaged shingles. If you notice any issues, it’s vital to have them repaired as soon as possible by a qualified professional to prevent further damage. Logical times to inspect for roof damage include after significant storms, as well as in the spring and fall. For example, springtime inspections can help identify any winter storm damage, while fall check-ups can help spot any potential problems before the cold weather hits. Also, pay extra attention to areas such as skylights, chimneys, and vents, as these are often the source of roof leaks.
Make Timely Repairs
Should you discover issues with your roof during the inspection, or you have an outright leak that removes all doubt, it’s essential to make the necessary repairs promptly. Allowing minor problems to fester will only lead to more significant (and expensive) damage down the road, so addressing them as soon as possible is crucial. Remember, it’s always best to hire a professional roofing contractor to handle any repairs or replacements, as they have the experience and expertise to do the job right.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
The gutter and eavestrough systems direct runoff water from the roof away from your home. If clogged, that water can back up and cause severe damage to your roof. Clear your gutters twice annually and after any extreme weather.
Don’t overlook other critical gutter components, including downspouts and extensions. Homeowners should check these regularly to ensure they are in good working order and divert runoff water away from the home’s foundation.
Trim Trees Around Your Home
Shade trees are a beautiful addition to every property. However, if these shade trees include overhanging branches, these limbs can severely threaten your roof. High winds, snow, and ice can break these branches, causing them to fall and damage your roof. Trim any limbs close to, hanging over, or touching your roof. These branches are the most likely to harm your home. Also, check around detached garages and storage sheds for limbs.
It’s critical to monitor the health of all trees on your property. Diseased, infested, and dying trees threaten people and property, so if you have an unhealthy tree, dealing with the issue promptly can help to avert disaster and stop the further spread of infestation or disease. The most invasive and damaging tree pests in the Weymouth, MA, area are the Asian longhorned beetle and Emerald Ash Borer, so be on the lookout for these.
Make Sure Your Attic Is Adequately Ventilated
Your attic is one of the essential rooms in your home regarding your roof. Proper ventilation ensures that heat and moisture don’t build up in your attic, which can lead to several problems, including rot, mold, and premature deterioration of your roofing materials. Roofing components most susceptible to damage from attic moisture include sheathing, shingles, and flashing. Ways to improve attic circulation and ventilation include installing soffit vents and ensuring no blockage of your ridge vents.
Treat The Roof For Unhealthy Growth
Constant exposure to the elements, ranging from searing sunshine to brutal cold, and every weather condition can take a toll on your roof. As a result, algae, lichen, and moss can grow on your roof and cause premature deterioration. If you notice a mold or unexpected growth on your roof, it’s essential to have it professionally removed as soon as possible. Generally, asphalt shingles are the most susceptible to growth, but any roofing material can be affected. Other factors contributing to unhealthy growth on your roof include poor ventilation and inadequate drainage. Also, north surfaces are more likely to grow moss because they don’t receive as much direct sunlight.
Prevent Ice Dams
Ice dams are a common problem in New England during the winter. They occur when heat from your attic melts the snow on your roof, and the water runs down to the colder edge of your roof, where it refreezes. As this process repeats, the ice dam grows larger and larger, eventually causing water to accumulate under the shingles, which can cause leaks and flooding in your home.
Ice dam prevention starts with good attic insulation and ventilation. By keeping your attic cooler, you can help prevent the snow on your roof from melting in the first place. In addition, making sure your gutters are clean and free of debris can help prevent ice dams, as clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze.
When you have an ice dam, it’s essential to remove it as soon as possible. However, don’t try to remove an ice dam yourself, as this can be extremely dangerous. Instead, contact a professional roofing contractor with the experience and equipment necessary to safely remove the ice dam and prevent any further damage to your roof.
Help For All Your Residential Roofing Needs
If you are concerned or have questions regarding your roof or need roofing repairs or maintenance, Flynn Roofing can help.
Our experienced roofing technicians can handle any roofing project, big or small. We are happy to schedule a free consultation or provide an estimate for professional roofing services including the following towns, Newton, Wellesley, Dover, Hingham, Norwell, Needham, Cohasset, and Scituate.