5 Steps to Yearly Roof Maintenance

No home is complete without a fully functional roofing system to protect the property's interior from the elements. Though it's easy to overlook a roof until a problem arises, like a leak or storm damage, it's possible to preserve the roof's structural integrity by performing annual maintenance. 

It's usually best to contact a roofing company to inspect the structure and make necessary roof repair or replacements. Still, homeowners can follow this guide to take a hands-on, proactive approach to routine roof maintenance. 

1. Perform a Visual Roof Inspection

If a roof has asphalt shingles, property owners want to minimize how much walking they do across it. Asphalt shingles are popular due to their cost-effectiveness and tiny granules that shield the material from UV damage. Walking across the roof frequently can loosen the granules, leaving the roof vulnerable to premature sun damage. For that reason, doing a visual inspection from the ground whenever possible is best. Walk around the property and check for signs of damage, like missing, curled, discolored, blistered, or cracked shingles. Use binoculars to see the roofing structure more clearly.

2. Check the Roof Flashing

Flashing refers to the metal strips that outline structures that emerge from the roof, like a chimney or skylight. Flashing creates a watertight seal around those corners and any point where two roof slopes meet.

Despite roof flashing having a lifespan of 15 years or more, depending on the metal, the material can degrade over time and let water under roofing materials and exterior structures. Check the flashing for signs of rust, dents, or lost fasteners during the roof inspection. 

3. Take Care of the Gutters

Gutters are integral to a high-performing roof system because they collect water runoff from the roof and disperse it away from the home's foundation. The runoff can sometimes include loose granules and organic debris that can build up inside the gutters and form a clog. 

If a gutter clog develops, water will puddle inside the channels instead of flowing through the downspouts and away from the property. The puddling can cause significant water damage to the roof and promote leaks in the home's interior.

Gutter cleaning should happen at least twice a year, in the fall and spring, to remove debris, dislodge obstructions, and prevent new clogs from forming. Check for clogs by running water from a hose through the channels. If water comes out of the downspouts, no obstructions are present. 

While cleaning the gutters, check their connections to ensure the system does pull away from the house. Loose or damaged gutters also create water damage by causing rainwater to flow down the siding and pool on the property's foundation. 

4. Treat the Roof for Moss and Algae

Moss and algae on the roof might seem harmless, but they can cause problems with a roof's integrity and visual appearance. Algae growth causes unsightly dark streaks on asphalt roofs. Treating this issue and maintaining the home's curb appeal involves rinsing the roof with a solution of water and chlorine bleach. 

Moss is a problem for north-facing properties or homes with lots of shade trees and a rainy climate. Though moss doesn't directly affect roofing materials, the organic material will soak up moisture. The longer moisture remains on a roof, the quicker the roofing materials will deteriorate and cause water to get into the roof's underlayment. 

Depending on the severity of a roof's moss or algae problem, contacting a professional roofing company for moss and algae removal and preventative measures is best.

5. Remove Debris

If a home has trees nearby, it's common for the plants to shed leaves, twigs, and other organic material onto the roof. Like moss, the debris will harbor moisture and promote premature deterioration the longer they remain on the roof. Otherwise, the rain will push materials into the gutters and increase the risk of a clog. 

Cleaning the roof at least once a year is ideal. When removing debris, be sure to check areas where twigs and leaves are most likely to accumulate, like around valleys and skylights. 

Maintain Your Roof With the Help of Lagunas Roofing

A professional roofing company can help you manage your annual roof maintenance needs. As one of the best roofing companies serving residents within the Metro St. Louis, MO, area, Lagunas Roofing offers roof inspections, moss and algae removal, roof repair, and other premium residential and commercial roofing services like gutter repair and siding replacement.

Receive a free quote on roofing services from Lagunas Roofing by calling (618) 300-5661 or fill out their online contact form. This roofing company also works with insurance providers when filing restoration insurance claims.