5 Tips to Extend Your Roof's Lifespan, and Signs It's Time for Replacement
Don't let roof maintenance overwhelm you. We’ve made a quick list of things you can do to ensure a long life for your roof, and also know when it's time for a new one.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your house. When functioning properly, it protects you and your family from water and being exposed to the elements. However, over time, your roof will start to show signs of wear and tear - how long a roof lasts depends on a variety of factors, extreme heat or cold can shorten a roof’s average lifespan, as can exposure to damaging winds and hail for example.
Proper upkeep of your roof can help keep it in good condition, and extend its lifespan. The following are 5 things you can do to ensure you get the maximum amount of life out of your roof:
1. Keep the gutters clean so water can properly flow away from your roof.
As leaves build up, gutters may become blocked. Water won’t be able to properly flow away from your roof and you could end up with damage to areas like the lower deck board.
2. Remove leaves, which can trap moisture and cause damage.
Any accumulated leaves should be removed periodically. Otherwise, they trap moisture and can cause minor damage to your roof.
3. Trim overhanging branches.
Overhanging limbs can break off and cause substantial damage to your roof. Branches also let small animals such as squirrels have easy access to your roof, where they can cause damage.
4. Power-wash your roof to remove moss and mold.
Have your roof professionally power washed regularly to prevent the growth of moss and mold.
5. Have your roof inspected regularly by a roofing contractor, who can fix minor problems before they become major ones.
Although you may be able to spot some obvious signs of damage yourself, a professional will know exactly what to look for. This can help catch small issues before they become much more extensive, and expensive.
When properly maintained, a roof can last for several decades. But over time, your roof - just like anything else, will start to show signs of wear and tear. So how will you know when it needs to be replaced?
Here are some signs it’s time for repair:
Water Damage in the Upstairs or Attic
Moisture marks, brown, yellow, or grey stains, and peeling paint on walls and/or ceilings could all indicate a damaged, leaking roof.
The Roof Has Outlived its Lifespan
How old is your existing roof? Depending on the material, the lifespan of a roof could be between 20 and 50 years, but it varies by the roofing material. You should know when your roof was installed so you can estimate its lifespan.
The Roof Sags
Sagging is a sign that trapped moisture has rotted away boards under the roof. A droopy, sagging roof is one that surely needs replacing before further damage occurs to your home.
Moss, Mold, or Fungi Have Taken Over
Moss, mold and fungi (such as mushrooms) indicate trapped moisture, which can ruin a roof. To do away with moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush but be careful to address any underlying problems. If moss remains after brushing, contact a professional to get the roof properly inspected.
Curling or Buckling Shingles
When shingles start to curl or buckle, it’s a sign that they’re not longer properly attached and have likely already sustained damage. In some cases, a qualified roof repair company can replace specific shingles, but this problem can often signal a larger issue.
And don’t forget to call in a roofer for a professional inspection once a year. A basic inspection could save you thousands of dollars in roofing repair costs by spotting minor damage before it turns into a major problem.
Our team at Touchstone is ready to help you today, call us at (425) 428-8053 or request a free consultation. We can give you a basic inspection, and help you decipher any signals your roof is sending you, and if, needed help you choose the correct repair or replacement options.