Your roof is subject to constant damage from the elements: sun, rain, wind, falling leaves and snow. However, by implementing a few simple roof maintenance techniques, you can extend the life of your roof and prevent minor problems from becoming expensive repairs. At Avatar Roofing we are regularly asked by homeowners what work can be carried out on their roof and by whom. This article outlines the typical maintenance work that can be safely completed by yourself and other work that is best completed by a professional roofing contractor. We also outline the signs to look out for to determine whether your roof requires repair.
How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?
It’s recommended for most roofs to get checked twice a year. In the spring you can identify any damage that has occurred during the winter, and in the fall you can clear out leaves and get your roof ready for the cold weather.
You should also take a look after any big storm. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can loosen shingles and bend flashing in just a few minutes. If you’re not sure what storm damage looks like, our guide on roof damage caused by weather breaks it down.
In addition to your own checks, an annual roof inspection by a qualified roofer can identify worn sealants, softening decking and hidden leaks which would be difficult to see from the ground.
How Can You Inspect Your Roof Without Climbing on It?
One of the best roof maintenance tips we have to offer you is to stay off of your roof. Damage to your shingles from walking on them as well as serious injury from falls from roofs can occur. You can learn a lot about your roof from the ground as well as from the attic.
Exterior Signs to Check From the Ground
Take a pair of binoculars and go on a tour of your house! Look for:
- Missing, lifted, curling, or cracked shingles
- Bald spots where the granules have worn away
- Granules accumulating in gutters or at the bottom of downspouts.
- Dark spots on roof shaded areas (often with streaks coming from them).
- Moss or mold growth
- Loose or missing flashing, nails, or metal roof bolts.
- Sagging spots along the roofline
Interior Signs in the Attic and Ceilings
Next, look for signs of a leak inside your home. Leaks can appear inside before any signs of damage appear outside. Check for:
- Brown or yellow water stains on ceilings and walls.
- Daylight shining through the roof boards in the attic
- Damp, flattened, or moldy insulation
- A musty smell that won’t go away
Write down where the problem is occurring and take some photos of it as well. This will make it easier for the roofer to identify the problem and find it when he arrives.
How Do You Safely Remove Debris From Your Roof?
Debris such as leaves, pine needles and small branches can accumulate on your roof over time. This debris can trap moisture against your shingles and also prevent water from draining off of your roof. It is best to remove such debris from the ground using a roof rake or a leaf blower with an extension.
Ladders should only be used on a dry, calm day. A spotter should hold the ladder for you. Wear shoes with good grip and consider using a roof safety harness. Never attempt to work on a wet or frosty roof.
Cut down on debris by cutting branches that are leaning up against your house, especially those that are rubbing up against your roof. This will also keep branches from damaging your shingles and falling in a storm.
What Is the Best Way to Remove Moss and Algae From a Roof?
Moss and algae are typically found in shaded, moist areas of your yard. This could be the north side of your home or under trees. Moss acts much like a sponge and can pull up your roofing material over time. Algae causes the black streaks found on roofs.
Here’s how to remove them safely:
- Pick a roof cleaner your shingle maker approves.
- Follow the label instructions. Let the product sit for the specified time.
- Use a soft-bristle brush and gently sweep off the loosened growth starting at the top of the plant and working down.
- Rinse with a garden hose on low pressure.
Many online roof maintenance tips fail to mention this, but never use a stiff bristle brush or pressure washer on your roof. The force of the water can remove the granules from your shingles that protect them from the sun, and can also push water under the shingles.
To deter regrowth of moss on your roof, inquire about installing zinc or copper strips along the roof’s ridge. As rain runs off the roof and over these metal strips, minute amounts of metal are washed down over the roof’s surface thereby slowing down regrowth of moss. If you are planning on installing a new roof, consider asking about algae resistant roofing shingles.
How Do You Maintain Gutters, Downspouts, Soffits, and Fascia?
Gutter care is one of those overlooked roof maintenance tips. Failure to maintain your gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles of your home and rot the wood. It can also cause damage to your home’s foundation.
Gutter cleaning should be done at least twice a year. If you have lots of trees near your home, you may need to clean your gutters more frequently. The biggest cleaning of the year is in the fall, after most of the leaves have fallen from the trees. Use a plastic gutter scoop to remove the debris, and then use a garden hose to flush the gutters and downspouts. If water does not flow freely from the bottom of the downspout, then it is likely clogged.
While you’re at it, check for:
- Leaks at seams and corners
- Sagging, loose, or missing sections
- Rotted soffit or fascia boards
- Peeling paint or missing caulk
Fresh caulk and paint jobs are weekend projects that most can complete. If you’re not looking to take on the annual cleaning of your gutters, then gutter guards or even just gutter screens are a relatively inexpensive option to save a lot of time and hassle in the long run.
Don’t Forget Chimneys, Skylights, and Roof Vents
Leaks tend to originate from the same areas. Look for problems from the ground or attic at these locations:
- Cracked or missing bricks and mortar on your chimney.
- Gaps in or rusting of the flashing around chimneys, skylights and vents.
- Foggy glass or worn seals on skylights
- Vents blocked by leaves, nests, or debris
The clear vents in your attic may seem like a minor feature, but good attic ventilation is essential to keep your attic cool in the summer and to prevent ice dams and moisture problems in the winter.
For chimney cleaning, skip the DIY route. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard, and removing it means working at height with special tools. Hire a sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
When Should You Call a Professional Roofer Instead of DIY?
There are many jobs that are best left to the professionals. Some jobs are just not safe enough for individuals to handle by themselves.
- Your roof is steep or more than one story high
- You have an active leak or water stains that keep getting bigger.
- Flashing needs to be repaired or replaced
- Several shingles are damaged or missing
- You suspect storm or hail damage
- Your roof is 15 to 20 years old or older
Don’t let a minor repair turn into a full replacement. A professional roof inspection by the team at Avatar Roofing can help identify problems and outline your choices for repair.
Quick Seasonal Roof Maintenance Checklist
Follow these roof maintenance tips as a yearly guide to maintaining your roof.
- Spring: Check for winter damage, clean gutters and check the attic for any leaks.
- Summer: Trim trees, treat moss and algae, and check attic ventilation. Our summer roof maintenance tips have more ideas.
- Fall: Remove leaves from roof and gutters. Inspect flashing. Have roof inspected by professional.
- Winter: Check for ice dams and heavy snow loads. Check attic for signs of frost or water droplets after a storm.
Following these roof maintenance tips a few times a year is one of the easiest ways to protect your home and your wallet. You don’t have to do it all alone, though. If something looks off, or you just want peace of mind, schedule a roof inspection with Avatar Roofing. Our team will give your roof a careful look and an honest answer.
Picture Credit: iStock