Your roofing shingles form a sturdy barrier between the interior of your home and the elements outside, but they won't last forever. You'll need regular roofing maintenance to extend their lifespan, as well as roof repairs to protect your home after storm damage or years of wear and tear take their toll. Here's what you, as a homeowner, need to know to keep your roof in excellent shape and save money.

Why Do You Need Roofing Maintenance?

Roofs can get damaged in several ways. The wind can tear off shingles or force water underneath them. Years of sun exposure can weaken shingles and crack flashing (the material used to seal gaps where the shingles are interrupted, such as the seams of the roof or areas where a chimney or skylight pokes through). Falling branches and hail can break or tear shingles and damage the underlying structure. Over time, mold and wood rot can set in and weaken the roof.

When Do You Need to Schedule Roofing Maintenance?

Some roof damage is easily visible. For example, you may notice shingles are missing, that you can see the edges of shingles warping and lifting, or that there is a noticeable buckle in the roof. In other cases, you may experience a leak indoors. On sunny days, you can go up to your attic or crawlspace and look at the underside of the roof; anywhere you can see daylight, water can get in. Finally, the most reliable way to tell is to have your roofing company perform an inspection.

How Can You Protect Your Roof?

The number one piece of roofing maintenance you need is a roofing inspection at least once a year, preferably after the rainy season to identify any damage done by storms. You can also prevent damage by trimming your trees to keep them away from the roof. Properly maintain your gutters to avoid water flowing back up onto the roof.

For roofing maintenance and repairs in Honolulu, HI, choose Akamai Roofing. Serving the island of Oahu since 1972, they pride themselves on friendly service and hold an A+ rating with the BBB. When you need to repair or replace roofing, one of their professional contractors will guide you in choosing materials, scheduling installation, and following up with any issues after fitting. They also offer energy-efficient roofing systems to help you save on your cooling bills. To get started, call (808) 486-5555 or send a message online.