It’s no secret that our homes are often the largest financial investments we make, so it’s important we protect that investment. Part of caring for your investment includes replacing your roof after damage from a storm, or from routine wear and tear. Since a new roof is also a significant investment, you’ll want to take steps to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Here’s what you need to know about roof maintenance.
CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS REGULARLY
Leaves, branches, and debris will accumulate in your gutter and can lead to damaging blockages if they are not cleaned quickly. Plan to clean your gutters at least twice a year in the spring and the fall. However, after particularly strong storms, it’s best to inspect them as soon as it is safe to do so, to prevent damage to your ceiling, basement, and everywhere in between.
KEEP TREES PRUNED
Tree branches and limbs that extend over your roof not only lead to leaf and debris accumulation but can also damage your roof shingles. Maintaining well-pruned and trimmed tree branches is an essential component of proper roof maintenance.
PERFORM REGULAR ROOF MAINTENANCE INSPECTIONS
When it comes to roof maintenance, it’s best to take a proactive approach and look for damaged, missing, bubbling, or curling shingles regularly. Minor damage can often be repaired quickly and affordably. Unfortunately, if you don’t address these issues, they can snowball into a significant problem, potentially requiring a roof replacement.
BE MINDFUL OF MOSS
In a damp climate like Eugene, moss is an unavoidable fact of life. While innocuous-looking, moss growth on your roof can quickly become problematic if left in place. Moss holds water in it, which keeps moisture on your shingles constantly. Though new, premium asphalt tiles are designed to withstand plenty of water, leaving wet moss on the roof can test its durability. Moreover, moss can begin to grow underneath shingles, pulling the shingle off the roof, and potentially exposing your home’s interior to water damage.
ENSURE YOUR HOME IS PROPERLY INSULATED
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to your insulation, so be sure to check the condition of your attic from time to time to ensure you are free of “attic sweat,” also known as attic condensation. Attic condensation occurs in the winter and spring when the warm, moist indoor air comes in contact with cold wooden beams in the attic due to insufficient insulation. This creates condensation not unlike when a cool beverage sweats in the sun. So be sure you look for signs of condensation in your attic at least once a year.
ROOF UPKEEP IS THE KEY TO MAKING YOUR ROOF LAST
Premium quality asphalt shingle roofs may have a lifespan of up to 25 years. However, that’s only with excellent roof maintenance. If you don’t perform any maintenance on your roof, it may only last a fraction of that time. Moreover, failing to perform basic roof maintenance puts not only the exterior of your home, but the interior of your home at risk of significant, and often costly damage.
READY FOR A NEW ASPHALT SHINGLE ROOF IN LANE COUNTY?
If your home is due for a new roof, contact Oregon Roof Guys today. As a top-rated roof replacement company serving Lane County, we offer premium asphalt shingle roof replacements at affordable prices. Financing is available!
