Roof maintenance checklist every homeowner should follow
You should be taking good care of your roof even when it isn't leaking. Use chemicals to prevent moss and algae from growing on the surface, or just scrape them. Roof maintenance should also involve cleaning the gutter to ensure better water flow.
According to This Old House, around 31% of homeowners across the country have repaired, renovated, or maintained their roofs over the past three years. Many homeowners take good care of their roofs because they know how much they protect their home from damage.
You shouldn't be neglecting home roof care after spending your money on your dream house.
What Kind of Maintenance Does a Roof Need?
Once you know the kind of maintenance your roof needs to look good and work as it should, you won't wait until you see water dripping from your ceiling to call an expert. Avoid roof damage at all costs by having a checklist you can refer to.
Checking the Shingles
A lot of homes in Kalispell, Montana, have roofing shingles because one good thing about them is that they aren't hard to maintain. A quick scan can help you spot:
- Loose shingles
- Curling edges
- Missing shingles
- Broken ones
Climbing on your roof isn't the only way to see if there's any damage. There are safer methods you can use without climbing on a ladder or scaffolding. Get binoculars and use them to inspect your roof from the ground in just a few minutes.
Gutter Clearing
Leaves from your neighbors' trees, or even yours, can accumulate in gutters and start rotting there. You should clear out a blocked gutter to prevent roof damage. It protects:
- Your foundation
- Roofing material
- Siding
Once you keep your cutters free of dirt, your roof line won't soak up water after it rains.
Flashing Inspection
Roofing experts install flashing in all the areas where your roof meets skylights and vents. If a nail loosens or the metal bends, it leaves a gap.
You'll be able to prevent moisture from spreading into other parts if you do a roof inspection that includes checking the flashing for damage.
Ventilation Check
Lacking proper airflow can cause your roof to age quickly. You might have to do a replacement before the time you expected to, but you can prevent mold exposure caused by heat and humidity in your home by just doing a ventilation check.
Moss and Algae Removal
The green patches you see on your roof may be moss. It's harmful because it can cause your roof to hold on to more water after rainfall or snow.
Getting rid of moss and algae with a treatment should be part of your seasonal roof maintenance checklist each year. A brush can also remove them, but be careful not to cause damage.
Sealant Check on Exposed Nails
Rusting nails often cause roofs to leak because they start allowing water to penetrate around them. Nails are an important part of your roofing system, so as you maintain it, apply sealant on them. You'll keep water out and have peace of mind when it rains if you don't have any exposed nails on your roof.
How Often Should Roof Maintenance Be Done?
It depends. See the damage caused by winter by checking your roof during spring, and repeat the process in autumn to get ready for hot summer weather. Not every roof maintenance task needs to be done at once, so try to have a routine for spring and fall. Keep up with the maintenance after:
- A construction near your home
- Exposure to wildfire smoke
- A hailstorm
Discoloration or odd shadows on your roof after these events may sometimes be a sign that you're dealing with damage. Calling an expert can help you be sure and get any necessary repairs.
Benefits of Hiring Experts Over DIY Roof Maintenance
You may be able to check if your roof has damage just by standing on the ground. If you hire an expert, you'll get a thorough job, and they'll help you:
- Replace any missing shingles
- Check for leaks
- Clean the roof if it's dirty
- Fix flashing damage
Avoid DIY since you may not have all the tools you need for some of these complex jobs. It won't be helpful if you cause more damage trying to save money.
Once you find a roofer who has been working on different types of roofs across Montana for many years, they may do the job much faster than you would, since they know their craft. Avoid costly mistakes by choosing to work with pros who also offer a free roof inspection during yearly reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a New Roof Still Need Regular Maintenance?
Yes. Harsh weather wears out any roof, even if it's new and currently giving you better protection than your older one.
You'll protect your warranty and avoid early aging if you take the right precautions. Keeping up with maintenance is the best way to ensure the money you spend on the new roof doesn't go to waste.
Can I Do a Roof Check During Winter?
Absolutely. When there's snow on your roof, look for:
- Water dripping under the eaves
- Snow piles in specific areas
- Dark streaks due to ice melting unevenly
You should avoid climbing on your roof when it's icy because the slick surface makes you more likely to fall and injure yourself.
Should I Worry About Roof Noises at Night?
Not always. Some of the noise coming from your roof at night is due to shingles contracting. After a hot day, the cooler temperature causes shingles to make a popping or cracking sound as they contract. It's better to do a ground review the next morning to be sure.
Anytime you hear sudden dripping or shifts after a storm, call an expert to check if there's damage.
Protect Your Investment With Roof Maintenance
A roof maintenance checklist will make it easier to protect your home, and you can avoid wasting money, too. When you notice broken shingles or missing ones, call an expert for repairs.
You can do roof inspections seasonally to prepare your home for changes that may cause water damage. Read more home maintenance tips on our news page.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.