10 Tips for DIY Roof Maintenance

Regular roof maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your roof. But if you’re not handy around the house, taking care of it might seem a little challenging!

Luckily, all that’s required is a few simple tips so your roof installation stays in good working order. And, if you can’t DIY everything, you can always reach out to a trusted roofing contractor to do the hard work for you!

1. Check Your Shingles

If you’re familiar with DIY roof maintenance, it’s a refrain you’ll hear again and again and again. ‘Check your shingles!’ But few things will help to head off a water leak or major roof issue like doing just that.

Occasionally, and after a storm, look out for missing, curled or cracked shingles.

If you notice anything, hiring a roofer to get a second opinion is a good idea to ensure nothing gets missed.

2. And Your Gutters!

Missing or damaged shingles are one thing, but it’s also a good idea to check your gutters. If you’re noticing a lot of granule buildup from your shingles, it means that they’re on their way out!

Once they’ve lost their granules, they’ll have little UV protection and will begin to crack. That’s when they’ll start to let water in.

3. Head to the Attic

This is one of the most important parts of the roof maintenance checklist! Many water leaks will reveal themselves in your attic, so be sure to head upstairs for a little review.

If you notice water stains, a strange odor or bulging interior walls, it could be a sign that a leak has breached your home and repair is required.

4. Keep Tabs on Ventilation

In your attic, you’ll also notice that ventilation is the key to ensuring moisture doesn’t build up.

Be sure that your insulation is functioning as it should so moisture doesn’t have the chance to form and create problems.

5. Clear the Gutters

Gutters and eavestroughs are there to move water away from your home. That’s why it’s so important to make their job easier by keeping them clear!

It may not be the most fun of jobs, but clearing your gutters of any branches, leaves or debris will be sure to keep the water flowing by.

Clean them at least twice a year as part of your regular roof maintenance.

6. Do a Power Wash

For homeowners who have a shingle roof, a power wash every once in a while is the key to clearing algae. While algae may not be a concern right off the bat, it can lead to issues over time.

So, make a mixture of 50% water and bleach and clear it away before it becomes a problem.

You may also want to consider installing zinc strips. They can function to protect your roof from fungus, moss, mildew and algae. It also makes DIY roof maintenance a little easier!

7. Trim, Trim, Trim

Effective yard maintenance is a necessary part of keeping your roof tip top. Branches that overhang or touch your roof can scratch and damage shingles, and this leads to leaks.

When doing regular roof maintenance, remove any large branches that hang over your roof. This will help to ensure that tree debris doesn’t pile up over time.

8. View the Vents

Vent openings are another vulnerable spot on your roof that can lead to leaks if they’re starting to age.

Take a quick look in and around your vents to see if there’s anywhere water can gain access. If you notice signs of advanced wear and tear, it may be time for some roof repairs.

9. Do a Chimney Check

Another important part of any roof maintenance checklist is taking a look at your chimney. Cracks in the mortar or flashing may mean that water is permeating the structure of your roof.

If you notice any issues like this, contact a roofing contractor to get it fixed as soon as possible.

10. Schedule a Regular Roof Maintenance Inspection

Even if you’re a regular handyman, getting a second opinion to make sure nothing is missed can be a great idea. An experienced professional will be able to spot things regular roof maintenance might miss and find issues that only require minor repairs.

Reach out to a trusted inspector at least once every 1-2 years to keep your roof in great shape.

Conclusion

Keeping your roof in good shape is an important part of feeling comfortable and secure in your home. And all it takes to ensure your roof’s health is a little regular roof maintenance so no leaks can spring to life!

If you’re looking for a little help on your next roof inspection, reach out to the experts at Dr. Roof today at 1-818-514-1769 to get your free estimate!

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