Care & Maintenance of Shingle Roofs
Maintenance of the Roofing System
Every year all drain pipes, gutters, valleys and downspouts should be checked and cleaned out. Areas where leaves accumulate should be of special concern because decomposing material can degrade your shingles over time. Buildups cause drainage problems which lead to mold and leaks. Also, all visible pieces of metal flashing should be inspected as these can become dented and misshapen over time from falling limbs and other debris.
As roofs age, particular attention should be paid to the condition of curled or cupped shingles. Lifted shingles will allow water penetration which can lead to a rapid degradation of the roofing system as well as potential interior damage.
In addition to the yearly upkeep, a general maintenance package should be completed every 5-7 years ensuring all the roof penetrations are properly sealed including areas around pipe boots, flash points and exposed nail heads. Having the roof professionally cleaned to remove algae, those dark streaks that appear on lighter colored roofs, will help maintain the reflectability and energy efficiency of the shingle.
Roof Attachments
It is advisable to avoid installing or fastening items through or onto the roof if at all possible. Shingles are attached to the timber roof frame by large roofing nails but they are not always strong enough to hold up satellite dishes and other electronic receivers. If you do attach something to the roof, make sure its located on as close to a flat surface as you can manage as this will prevent pulling and undo stress on the shingles.
Ventilation
Good attic ventilation is the backbone to good roofing health. In the summer, a properly vented attic reduces heat buildup, cuts cooling costs and prolongs the life of the shingle. In the winter, proper ventilation allows heat and moisture that rises from the spaces below to escape keeping the attic dry and mold free. Have a professional roofing contractor provide a health assessment on your attic to ensure the ridge vent and soffit vents are adequately sized for your roof.
Following the simple steps above will keep your roof looking newer longer and prevent the headaches improper maintenance brings. An occasional tune-up by a licensed and qualified roofing contractor can extend the life of the roof significantly, thus protecting one of your biggest investments.
