A roof offers shelter for a house and contributes to its overall curb appeal. Keeping it maintained and following up on necessary roof repairs will extend its life and save you money. To help you care for this structure, here are a few do’s and don’ts for maintaining your roof.

Do:

Inspect regularly.

Inspect your roof twice a year to ensure the changing seasons haven’t left damage such as broken shingles. Pay close attention to areas around your chimney, skylight, kitchen, and HVAC vents, as they’re prone to excess moisture and heat distortion.

Get preventive roof repairs.

Small leaks, damaged flashings or shingles, or missing shingles can grow into worse problems, putting your home at risk for water damage in the next rainfall. To save on repair costs, perform any necessary maintenance as soon as you notice or are told that you need them.

Keep it clean.

During your bi-annual inspection, clear away leaves, debris, moss, mildew, and algae from your gutters and roof to ensure water can drain correctly. If you have solar panels, antennas, or satellite dishes, ensure that they haven’t been displaced by inclement weather. If you don’t feel comfortable climbing on the roof, call a roof repair and maintenance professional to perform these tasks for you.

Don’t:

DIY.

The ramifications of incomplete or incorrect repairs can be costly, so avoid performing work on your roof. It’s one of the most expensive components of your home, so have it inspected professionally when you need a repair instead of attempting work yourself.

Power wash the roof.

Power washers can cause damage to delicate structures, and can detach shingles and flashing that are loose. You won’t be able to detect water seeping underneath them until you have a leak, so when you need to clean your roof, use your hands or call an expert.

Store items on the roof.

Don’t leave piles of repair or building materials on the roof for extended periods, since their weight can damage the structure. Rainwater can also collect under and around these items, causing mildew, mold, and leaks. To prevent this, make sure your roof repairs are performed promptly by a contractor.

 

Maintaining your roof will extend its lifespan and protect your home. All-N-Two Roofing offers Slocomb, AL, and surrounding areas full-service roof repairs and maintenance. They work with residential and commercial clients, offer a 5-year labor warranty, and also specialize in painting, remodeling, and flooring to help you keep your home in top shape. Call (334) 389-8597 for an estimate or visit them online to see a full range of services.