Your roof protects your home from the elements, but it requires a little bit of your help to do the work more efficiently. Every roof needs regular maintenance to prolong its lifespan and save you money in the long-term. Here are some of the best residential roofing practices to help keep your roof in top-notch condition for years to come.

1. Keep Comprehensive Records Regarding the Roof

Always keep a record when your roof was installed, any maintenance done to it, and other pertinent information. This is an important aspect of roof maintenance. Keeping clear records also helps during insurance claims should a violent storm tear off your roof. Your insurer will demand evidence your roof was up to date with maintenance in order to honor the claim.

2. Have Your Roof Maintained Regularly

It’s recommended to have your roof inspected twice a year and after a heavy storm. Regular inspections will help you know whether there are leaks or other underlying problems which require prompt repair. Debris should also be regularly cleared out of your roof’s problem areas, such as low-slope sections, gutters, and valleys. Built-up organic matter and other debris can lead to leaks or premature deterioration of the roofing material.

3. Never Get on the Roof On Your Own

Roofing is among the riskiest professions and should be better left to the experts. However, you can visually check the following issues from the ground level using binoculars and notify your roofer whenever you notice something unusual:

  • Missing or broken shingles
  • Debris on your roof
  • Moss or algae growing
  • Granules in your gutters or downspouts
  • Signs of moisture in the interior of the home (leaks, wet walls, mold, etc.)

Although amateur roof inspections are a great way to identify issues early, there are several aspects of roof care which require a professional eye, attention, skills, and tools. Be sure to schedule professional roof inspections twice every year and after major storms.

Couto Construction Can Help!

At Couto Construction, we only use high-quality shingles made to resist mold and discoloration. Although it doesn’t hurt to periodically spray your roof with a hose, a lot of times it isn’t necessary. Contact us today to schedule a free professional roof inspection or to learn more about our roofing services!