How Do You Maintain Roof Shingles?

Every year, homeowners discover they need to repair or replace their shingles, either because they’re old or the last storm damaged them. Even though it’s inevitable your roof will need replacing at some point, to prevent costly repairs and increase its lifespan, it’s vital to maintain roof shingles. There are several steps you can take to maintain your roof, so scroll down to learn how and when to check your shingles.

Roof Shingles Maintenance Checklist

It may seem like an inconvenient chore, but you must check on your roof often, at least every year, or after a big storm or high winds. You don’t need to climb up on your roof; however, take some good binoculars and check for any potential damage. Here’s what to look for:

1. Curling shingles – If you find this condition, it may mean your shingles are at the end of their lifespan or that they are improperly ventilated in your roofing system. If just a few are curling, you can replace them on a limited basis.
2. Missing shingles – Any shingle you find that’s loose or missing isn’t doing its job and therefore, should be fixed immediately. Water can enter the attic as a result of missing or loose shingles, which can cause a bigger issue.
3. Peeling shingles – Just one storm can do major damage to a shingle, so if you see peeling shingles after a storm, get an expert out to inspect it.
4. Cracked shingles – Wind, rain, or snow can cause shingles to crack, as well as extreme cold conditions that lead to ice. It’s best to replace these shingles quickly.
5. Missing granules – Normal weather conditions can cause granules to loosen and eventually fall off. Vigorous power washing can damage the shingles, so check for granule buildup in your gutters and replace if necessary.
6. Peeling or missing flashing – Metal flashing and rubber boots around chimneys and vent protrusions need to be in place; this is to ensure water doesn’t enter the home. You will need to see this up close, though, so get a professional to inspect the flashing.

If you see any of these signs of damage, it’s essential to get them looked at by a professional as quickly as possible. To keep your roof in good condition, wash your roof, which will eliminate not only dirt and debris but get rid of algae that may be growing on your house. To get rid of algae, spray your roof with a 50 percent mix of water and bleach solution. Even though this will kill the algae quickly, you’ll want to install copper strips just beneath your roof’s peak. This will help with the next rain when the copper molecules stream down your roof and kill any future algae.

Want a Professional Inspection?
Give us a call on 09 218 50 46
Or email: info@ascentroofing.co.nz
Our offices are based in: Glenfield, Auckland

source: roofdoctorutah.com