Most homeowners wait as long as they can to replace their roofs, and the best way to prevent having to do so is through regular maintenance. The roofing contractors at Columbia Roofing in Elkridge, MD, say warmer weather is the perfect time to make sure your roof is in good shape. Grab a ladder, some gloves, and use the tips below to extend the life span of your home’s roof.

4 Tips for Summer Maintenance on Your Roof

1. Do a Visual Inspection

Start in your attic, and check for signs of moisture or other vulnerabilities in the structure. Then, take a walk around the outside perimeter of your home, keeping watch for loose granules or pieces of shingles in your yard. Finally, grab a ladder and get a closer look at the top of your roof. Are shingles missing? Are nails sticking out? If so, get these repaired by a roofing contractor.

2. Clear Any Debris You Find

Start with your gutters and remove any debris you find inside them using your hands. You can keep an eye out for holes or problems within your gutters and downspouts while you’re at it. You should also clear away any tree branches, leaves, or other debris from on top of your roof.

3. Treat Algae or Moss Buildup

Do you see signs of black discoloration or moss growing on your roof’s shingles? Algae and moss grow in damp places and can damage your roof if left untreated. Treatment options are available at most hardware stores, but use care when spraying, so you don’t affect surrounding plant life.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Landscaping Duties

If you have trees near your home, make sure the branches don’t hang over your roof by trimming them back. Keep vines from climbing the sides of your house and plants from getting unruly. Plants that grow out of control and diseased trees can attract unwanted insects and pests, which might decide to lay claim to your roof.

Following these tips will help you extend the life of your roof. If you need help from a professional roofing contractor in Maryland, call Columbia Roofing at (410) 479-6100. You can also visit their website for more information on their roofing services.