There are various durability ratings for roofs. Some shingles are rated at twenty years, others at thirty years, and some go even as far as forty and fifty years. According to some reports, metal roofing systems can last up to seventy years, which means you won’t need to think about it for years.

Roof Repairs & Maintenance Tips

Roofs are often overlooked by homeowners until something goes wrong. If they have a roof that’s four decades old, they assume it will last that long. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. Keeping your roof maintained and up to date can extend its life and make it last longer than you anticipated. With that in mind, here are some steps you should take to maintain your roof:

• Make sure your gutters are cleaned every year. If they fill up, water can overflow and leak at the wrong points, damaging your soffit and fascia. Gutters that are too full can even bend and twist, making them inoperable. Cleaning doesn’t take long if you do it regularly.
• It is important to remove all debris from the roof, especially in the valleys. Examples include dead leaves during the fall and broken branches after a storm. Drainage and flow of water must be uninterrupted, and all debris must be removed by licensed professionals using safety equipment.
• As soon as you notice damage, have it repaired. For example, maybe you notice some of your shingles have been torn off after a storm. It is important to get your roof repaired right away when a shingle is missing since they overlap at the seams, and the opening can compromise your roof. Make those repairs as quickly as possible.
• It is important not to overlook small problems. If you see weak spots developing in the flashing, get them fixed immediately. Some areas may need to be resealed, especially at corners and pressure points. Even a little issue can grow slowly, especially if water gets in and rots out the sheeting or the trusses.
• Algae, lichen, dark brown or green staining, and the growth of microbes can make your roof look neglected, but they can reduce its functionality and longevity. Regular roof cleaning is important.
• Check your roof after every storm. Did you get hail while you were at work? Did a cold snap lead to ice buildup? Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements. The downside is that the roof also absorbs that damage, and that doesn’t come without repercussions. Make sure to inspect your roof after such an event and then contact a repair and cleaning company as soon as possible.