Your roof is probably the most important part of your house, as it keeps the structure and everything in it safe from the elements. As such, it's important to keep your roof clean and well maintained. Maendele Construction, based in Hastings, NE, believes knowing what can harm your roof is essential to keeping it in good condition.

Here are four things that will damage your roof:

• Tree Branches: It's always a good idea to check the trees around your backyard for sick branches and overhanging tree limbs. The branches may break off during a strong wind or storm and fall onto your roof, causing extensive damage. Pruning will prevent large tree branches from dropping onto your roof.

• Wild Animals: Raccoons and squirrels may seem adorable, but they can contribute to the deterioration of your roof by gnawing at the roof material in search of food. The excrement of rodents and nesting birds is also naturally acidic and can spoil the shingles.

• Debris Accumulation: Left unchecked, fallen leaves, twigs, and pine needles from nearby trees may collect in and clog your gutters, leaving rainwater to just sit in them. In turn, the stagnant rainwater can cause shingles to rot and a metal roof to rust, resulting in an expensive headache for you.

• Damaged Flashing: When the flashing around your roofing system are cracked or broken, water may leak into your house and cause serious structural damage. When you spot damaged flashing, call a professional to reseal them to keep your property dry and protected.

For thorough and reliable roof repair and maintenance services, contact the professionals of Maendele Construction at (402) 984-3906. With their ten years of experience in commercial and residential roofing and a keen eye for detail, you can be sure your roofing issues will be addressed properly. Aside from roof repairs, they do siding work, re-roofing, and new roof installations. Visit their website or Google+ page to learn about their three-year workmanship guarantee on all their roofing services.