Every year, millions of homeowners replace their roof, either because it has reached the end of its lifespan or because of a severe storm or other types of damage. Proper roof maintenance is one of the most important things homeowners can do to protect their homes and property. Just like mowing the lawn or changing the furnace filters, regular roof maintenance is an important part of owning a home.
Benefits of Regular Roof Maintenance
A professionally installed roof is designed to last. Depending on the type of roof you have, you can expect it to last 20 years or longer under normal conditions. Annual roof maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your roof while protecting your investment.
Here are seven benefits of regular roof maintenance:
1. Increases Lifespan and Avoids Early Roof Replacements
Whether it’s clearing debris, unclogging gutters, or just keeping a close eye for potential leaks, preventive maintenance will extend the lifespan of your roof. When you address issues right away, you avoid costly roof replacements.
2. Saves Money in the Long Run
Repair costs are always cheaper when problems are caught early. A minor issue that is left unrepaired can turn into a major problem in a short amount of time. Even a small leak can lead to extensive water damage and expensive structural repairs.
3. Keeps Small Problems From Getting Worse
Many homeowners don’t realize there's a problem with their roof until they spot a leak inside their home. By then, the problem is often much larger than it appears. Water from a leak can infiltrate your attic and damage insulation and wood framing well before you notice a leak on your ceiling.
4. Prevents Structural Damage
By maintaining your roof, you can avoid the structural damage that often comes with a poorly maintained roofing system. If your roof isn’t regularly maintained, problems can develop that compromise the structural integrity of your roof as well as your entire home.
5. Healthier Living
Chronic leaks can lead to interior mold and mildew growth, which can pose a serious health risk. With regular maintenance and roof inspections, small leaks can be addressed promptly and the hazards associated with mold are avoided.
6. Protects Your Home’s Value
Since your roof is one of your home’s most visible features, it’s often one of the things potential homebuyers notice first. A roof that hasn’t been maintained or is in need of repairs will lower the value of your home and discourage potential buyers. A newer, well-maintained roof can significantly increase the value of your home.
7. Gives You Peace of Mind
WIth regular roof maintenance, you don’t have to worry about whether or not your roof can handle the elements. Having your roof professionally inspected will either catch problems early or give your roof a clean bill of health. Knowing that your roof is in good condition gives you the peace of mind that it will protect your property and family the next time a big storm comes your way.
What You Can Do Yourself to Maintain Your Roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. A well-maintained roof protects your home from the elements, saves energy, helps avoid serious leaks, adds curb appeal and can increase the value of your home.
While we don’t recommend that homeowners climb up on their roofs themselves, there are several things you can do to maintain your roof and prevent costly repairs:
- Clean gutters twice a year
- Clear off leaves and other debris
- Trim back overhanging branches
- Remove algae, moss, and mildew (professional assistance recommended)
- Regularly check the attic for leaks
- Get a professional inspection
While performing routine maintenance tasks goes a long way toward keeping your roof in good condition, even the best-maintained roof will eventually have issues. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, gutter damage, attic leaks, or other signs of water damage, call a professional roofing company for an inspection.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends a self-check at least twice a year in addition to professional inspections. When properly maintained, your roof can have a long lifespan. A thorough inspection by a qualified roofing professional will catch issues before they become overwhelming and more expensive to repair. Professionals know how to identify the root cause of a problem, and can provide a solution that takes care of not just the symptom, but the cause.
Work With a Trusted Local Roofing Company
Since 1999, Brian Dawson Roofing & Construction has been installing residential and commercial roofing systems throughout the greater St. Louis region. Because all of our work is done under warranty and we are fully insured, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new roof is dependable and long-lasting.
Contact us online or at (636) 733-6435 to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Our mission is to provide quality roofing services and top-notch customer service at a competitive price.