Your roof is one of the most critical components when it comes to providing protection against the elements. It can also be one of the most costly to replace. Although workmanship and material quality are the major factors in determining how long a roof will last, there are several things you can do to ensure that you get the maximum life from your roof.
What To Consider
Keep Branches Trimmed
Tree branches should not be allowed to scrape against any part of your roofing system. The scraping motion can remove granules from asphalt shingles, for example, or encourage rotting on fascia boards.
Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear and Repaired
Guttering systems play a greater role in the protection of a roof than many people realize. If the gutters cannot carry away the runoff efficiently — whether it is the gutter or the downspout that is clogged or collapsed — water can back up under the roof and damage decking, soffit and fascia.
Keep Debris Off the Roof
Trash, leaves and tree limbs should be removed as soon as possible. They provide locations for water to accumulate, and they can clog the valleys that direct runoff. Debris also encourages the growth of mold and mildew on your roof. If you have algae, mold or mildew, have your roof professionally cleaned; many do-it-yourself methods can actually cause more extensive damage.
Ventilate the Attic Sufficiently
A poorly ventilated attic can reduce the life of your shingles. In summer, attic temperatures can reach 160 degrees if ventilation is insufficient. This “fries” asphalt shingles, and it can also crack or warp your rafters.
Consider Roof Insulation
When most homeowners think of insulation, the image that comes to mind is the insulation in the attic. Attic insulation helps keep the structure more comfortable and reduces energy bills, but it does little to prolong the life of your roof. Roof insulation, which can be applied to existing roofs, reflects the sunlight hitting the roof. This helps keep the roof temperature lower, extending the life of the roof. Roof insulation can also keep attics cooler, which in turn results in a more comfortable interior and lower energy bills.
Have a Roofing Professional Inspect Periodically
A professional roof inspection can help you discover small problems before they turn into big ones. You should have a professional inspection every two to three years as well as after a severe-weather event such as a major hailstorm.
With more than 30 years of roofing industry experience, Alpha Roofing is an award-winning company serving Central Texas and the greater Austin area. We can remove debris and moss, install a metal roofing system or asphalt shingles, repair a chimney, and install siding to name just a few of the services we offer. Our crews are committed to workplace safety, superior customer service and exceptional workmanship, but our rates are affordable. You can request a free, no-obligation online quote using the form on our website, or call (512) 777-1086 to speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable staff members.