Homeowners may experience many forms of roof damage over the years. This can be anything from missing shingles to water damage and sagging. Even the smallest shingle problem can turn into a budget headache if it’s not repaired in time. Protecting your roof before it becomes damaged will help you maximize its lifespan and prevent expensive repair costs. Here are a few effective ways to make your residential roof as damage-resistant as possible.
Maintain Gutters
Water can have a huge impact on the structural integrity of your home. Thankfully, an efficient gutter system will keep water moving off and away from your roof and foundation. To keep your gutters in top condition, you should clean and maintain them at least twice a year. Consider planning this chore at the end of spring and again in fall after all the leaves are down. This is the most common time for homeowners to experience gutter clogging. If you have several trees on your property, you may need to schedule your cleanings more frequently to stop branches, leaves, seeds and other debris from clogging your gutters.
Repair Damaged Shingles
Routinely check your roof for bent, cracked, curling or missing shingles. Bare spots and compromised shingles provide the perfect opportunity for water to leak into your home. If you notice any roof issues, it’s safer and more efficient to call for roofing service rather than try do-it-yourself repairs. Working on a roof requires climbing up ladders and having access to specific tools and materials. Additionally, if you’re not skilled in roofing work, you may damage the roof deck below, causing further issues.
Protect Against Sun Damage
Common roofing materials like asphalt, clay, metal and more are designed to be able to effectively withstand direct sunlight for decades. However, after years of bad weather and season changes, your roof can start to wear down. When you decide to replace your roof, ask your roofer about the most sun-resistant options available. Some roofs may also benefit from a protective roof covering or reflective paint that will direct sunlight away from your home.
Prevent Snow and Ice Issues
During the cold season in areas that receive snow, you may have to deal with ice dams. These blockages form on your roof during freezing weather and can stop the melting snow from safely draining. Water will then build up on your shingles and eventually leak into your attic and walls. A few easy ways to prevent this problem is to ensure your roof is properly ventilated, which can help naturally protect against and remove ice dams. You should also have a snow rake on hand to manually remove any lingering snow after a big storm.
Insulate Attic
Insulating your attic minimizes your energy wastefulness, making it easier to keep your home comfortable throughout the summer. High-quality insulation will also protect against condensation, which can settle on your roof’s joists, supports and beams. Constant moisture will lead to issues like rotting, sagging and pests. During the winter, your insulation will stop heat from escaping and prematurely melting the snow on your roof. A lack of insulation is one of the leading causes behind frequent ice dam issues.
Regularly Inspect for Pests
Attics tend to be one of the warmest and driest areas of the home, making them ideal for pests like mice, birds, raccoons and squirrels. Animals in the home can damage your pipes, wiring, heating and cooling systems and insulation. They’re also likely to carry allergens and diseases that will harm your family’s well-being. Keep an eye out for signs of nests, droppings, gnawed wiring or the sound of squeaking and movement in the walls. Inspect your roof regularly to check for any new entry points or nearby trees that can give animals access to your roof.
Dedicated Roofing Team in Marietta
Transformation Roofing & Home Services always goes above and beyond when providing our superior roofing services in Marietta, GA. Our primary goal is to guarantee your complete satisfaction, comfort and safety. We’re a licensed and highly-experienced team of roofing contractors with exceptional ratings. Whether you’re looking for shingle maintenance or want to know about roof replacement options, we’re your best choice for residential roofing services in the area. You can even count on us to provide 24/7 emergency repair service to stop the spread of damage after a storm. Call Transformation Roofing & Home Services today to schedule a complimentary roof inspection in Marietta.
