3 Simple Things You Can Do To Maintain a Healthy Roof

Maintaining a healthy roof is an important job for every homeowner. Roof deterioration can quickly lead to interior and structural damage that will result in more costly, and time consuming repairs. There are three simple things that homeowners can do to maintain a healthy roof that will keep the roof structure and the home in good repair.

1. Inspecting the Structure Inspecting the roof is the first step in maintaining a healthy roof. After a particularly fierce storm when roof damage could have occurred, it is important to survey the roof surface for any blown off shingles, holes or other damage. Use caution if inspecting the roof after a snowfall or ice storm, as the surface will be particular dangerous to walk on. It is also a good habit to inspect the roof thoroughly every spring and fall. Spring, as it comes right after the snows and ice of winter, will usually be the time when roof issues are discovered and can be properly fixed. Fall is also a good time to inspect the roof, as it provides the homeowner with an opportunity to fix any damage from summer storms before the winter weather arrives. By inspecting the roof frequently, the homeowner will be much more likely to detect changes and problems as they arise.

2. Clean the Roof Cleaning the roof simply means ridding it of dirt and debris that have built up on the surface. This is an especially important task for homeowners with flat or slightly sloped roofs, as they tend to accumulate the most debris. A long handled floor broom is a good tool for brushing off the debris, just be careful not to damage the roof's surface by brushing too hard. After the roof has been brushed off, take the time to properly inspect it again in case any problem areas were being covered up by stray dirt. Never use a power washer when cleaning a roof. The high-intensity of the water pressure can quickly and easily cause shingles to become loose and damage a flat roof surface.

3. Take Care of the Gutters Gutters are an integral part of the roofing system. They help excess water flow away from the roof's surface and down to the ground in a controlled manner. Gutter care can make a huge difference when preventing leaks and damage to the roof. Inspect the gutters for dirt and debris in the spring, summer and fall. By cleaning them out, the water can flow freely and the roof will be able to drain properly. If there are sticks, leaves and dirt in the gutters, the water can overflow and seep into the house. For homes that are in particularly wooded areas with a lot of falling foliage, gutter shields are a great option for gutter care. They are usually made of a plastic screening that sits atop the gutter. They allow water to flow in, but keep sticks and leaves at bay. The only concern is that those pieces of debris may collect on top of the gutter guards, so be sure to brush them off a few times every year.

The time spent caring for the roof with the three steps above will help maintain a long-lasting, healthy roof. Always use caution when inspecting and cleaning the roof, as well as, when cleaning the gutters. Use a sturdy ladder that is placed on level, solid ground before climbing up. Taking care of the roof will result in home maintenance time well spent.