Worst Ideas for Protecting Your Roof
Your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your home and everything inside. A properly functioning roof will offer full protection from the elements, but a neglected roof can cause safety issues. Despite the good intentions that many homeowners have, there are some common roof care mistakes that you want to avoid because they will cause your roof health to decline.
Let’s dive into the worst ways you can protect your roof (and what our team of expert roofers at Elite Roofing and Restoration suggest instead 😉).
❌ Bad Idea: Power washing your roof. Your roof is bound to accumulate leaves, dirt, algae and even mold. You may already know that cleaning your roof is a necessary step in keeping it healthy. However, pressure washing your roof is not an advisable way to clean off these materials. The high intensity of a pressure washer can loosen shingles, blast away granules and force water into your home if there are any unseen leaks.
✅ Good Idea: Use a combination of chemicals and low pressure water to get your roof clean. If additional measures are needed, try using a soft bristled brush to gently scrub your roof, careful not to apply too much pressure. If you want to avoid jeopardizing the integrity of your roof, contact a professional roofer and schedule a cleaning service.
❌ Bad Idea: Installing a second layer of shingles. When your shingles show signs of wear and the time has come to replace them, don’t be tempted to cut corners and simply install another layer of shingles above the existing roof. While this may be cheaper than a roof replacement, another layer of shingles can create big problems including:
Excess weight on your home
Shorten lifespan
Uneven roof surface
A visually unappealing roof
Negative inspection reports
✅ Good Idea: Replace or repair your roof as needed. Bonus points if you keep up with routine maintenance and inspections. Doing so will help you address roofing problems early and maximize the life of your roof.
❌ Bad Idea: Ignoring roof damage because it seems minor. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when it comes to roof care is ignoring small repairs. Even a small leak or missing shingle can lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.
✅ Good Idea: Address all roof issues as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Don't wait until it's too late – take care of small repairs as soon as you notice them.
❌ Bad Idea: Ignoring tree branches that overhang your roof. While trees provide shade and beauty to your property, they can cause several issues with your roof. Branches that grow too close to your home and scrape against it during rough weather can cause damage. Leaves can fall onto your roof, clogging your gutters. In extreme cases, these overhanging tree branches can fall on your home.
✅ Good Idea: Trim trees that are near your home. All of these tree attributed hazards can be easily avoided if you pay attention to the trees surrounding your home and make sure they are a safe distance from your roof. Schedule regular tree trimmings and make sure to remove decaying trees from your property.
❌ Bad Idea: Taking on roof repairs that are above your head (literally). Roofing projects are the most difficult and dangerous home improvement projects for homeowners to take on. Relying on the pros ensures your roof repairs are completed quickly and correctly, eliminating any risk of personal injury.
✅ Good Idea: Call in the professionals! While it may be tempting to save money by attempting to DIY your roofing projects, it's important to hire a professional for these tasks. Not only do they have the necessary skills and experience, but they also have the proper equipment and safety gear to complete the job safely and effectively. Don't take chances with your roof - leave major repairs and replacements to the experts.
Protect your home and your investment with proper roof care. Follow these dos and don'ts to keep your roof in great shape for years to come.
Elite Roofing and Restoration is your source for quality roof repair and replacement.
In addition to roof replacements and repairs, both commercial and residential, we offer a considerable list of additional home repair services to assist you with any general construction needs you may have.
Contact us today to schedule your no-hassle, complimentary roof inspection today.
