From online stories to hearing a friend’s homeownership journey, it’s easy to get caught worrying about the secrets a new home may be hiding. While there isn’t a new homeowners guidebook, our team at Knights Roofing is here to help you start protecting your new home from the top down with proper roof maintenance. How much do you really know about your roof? Let’s start with the basics of maintaining your new-to-you home and some warning signs to remember.
How do I keep my roof in good condition with roof maintenance?
Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements, providing protection from above in every condition. Regular residential roof maintenance is key to ensure its longevity and durability for whatever Alberta weather will come this year. When you work with a professional roofing company like Knights Roofing, we can help give you the tools and knowledge for what to look for with your roof and seasonal maintenance tasks that can extend its life. Some essential tasks that we can help with to keep your roof in top condition include:
1. Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters or eavestroughs can lead to water backup, damaging your roof and home’s foundation. Make sure to clean your gutters regularly to prevent this issue.
2. Remove Potential Moss Buildup and Growth
Moss can trap moisture and cause damage to your roof’s shingles. Remove any moss buildup promptly to prevent further issues.
3. Trim Branches
Overhanging tree branches can rub against your roof and cause damage to shingles. Keep branches trimmed back to prevent this from happening.
4. Inspect After a Storm
After severe weather, such as a storm, inspecting your roof for any signs of damage is crucial. Look for curling or missing shingles or damaged flashing, and listen for any unusual sounds indicating damage.
5. Check Your Roof’s Membrane
For flat or low-slope roofs, it’s essential to inspect the membrane regularly for any signs of damage or deterioration. Addressing roof issues early can prevent leaks and costly repairs.
6. Perform Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of both residential and commercial roofs. Consider scheduling annual roof inspections and maintenance with a professional roofing contractor to catch any issues early and address them before they escalate.
Related: Why You Shouldn’t Wait on Roofing Repairs and Maintenance
8 Dangers of Neglecting Roof Maintenance
- Increased risk of fire from roof debris
- Water damage from unaddressed leaks
- Mould and mildew growth
- Voided warranty and insurance
- Unexpected structural damage
- Decreased home value
- Increased utility bills
- Increased repair costs
How often should you clean your roof?
While we tend to prioritize spring cleaning inside our homes or around a yard and patio, the last thing on our minds is thinking about the last time our roof was cleaned. With spring rains, cleaning your roof is often associated with cleaning out the gutter, but that’s only a tiny part.
Your roof should be cleaned at least every two years, depending on your surroundings. Remember that your roofing materials will also dictate how much they can handle – cleaning or walking on your roof too often can loosen shingles and expose the roof to the elements.
Moss growing on trees in your yard is one thing, but moss can spread throughout your property if left unchecked. Leaves and fallen branches left to their own devices on your roof can act as a jumping point for moss that can work under your asphalt shingles, causing them to curl at the edges and blow off. If you are in the process of selling your home or have just purchased a home, cleaning your roof can:
- Increase your curb appeal
- Improve energy efficiency
- Help you spot problem areas early
How do you clean a roof without damaging shingles?
At Knights Roofing, we value the safety of our customers and our team above all else with every job to ensure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day. With the right tools for the job, you can clean your roof, but if it is too steep and you can’t safely walk on it to do the job, call a professional Edmonton roofing company.
If you are up for the job, it is essential to clean out the gutters to ensure the water can flow freely and cover any plants that may fall in the splash zone to protect them from the cleaning products. A shingle residential roof can be cleaned with a bleach solution or hypochlorite for discoloration. When washing the solution off your roof, DO NOT use a pressure washer; it can strip the shingles and shorten your roof’s lifespan. Instead, we recommend using a sprayer attachment on a garden hose for more coverage and less wear and tear on your roof.
Did you know we offer yearly preventive roof maintenance and residential roof inspections to ensure your roof is always up for the job?
Protect your roof this season with Knights Roofing’s proactive maintenance approach and expert services. Contact us today to schedule your residential roof inspection and keep your home safe and secure for years to come.
Related: How a Roof Inspection Will Increase Your Home’s Resale Value