No one wants to pay for roof replacement early.
Roofs are essential for protecting our homes from the elements, and that is probably why they are anything but cheap. Because roofs are such big, important investments, you want your investment to last as long as possible. The good news is that, when it comes to the lifespan of your roof, you have a lot more control than you might think. In our previous post, our roofing contractors in Downers Grove went over a few tips for extending the life of your roof. Keep reading to learn more.
#4. Keep branches trimmed away from your roof.
Are there any trees with branches that hang over your roof? If so, it’s extremely important that you keep them trimmed away. On one hand, trees are beneficial, because they help to shade your roof from the sun and the damage it can cause. However, a fallen branch can do a lot of harm to your roof, especially if it’s a larger branch. But, a branch of any size can do damage, because it can scratch your roof. Even if the branches don’t fall, though, they can still drop leaves on the roof that hold moisture in and cause leaks and other issues.
#5. Make sure that your attic is properly insulated.
When most people think of insulation, they think of saving more money on their energy bills, but it also plays an essential role in protecting your roof and making it last as long as possible. In the summer, the heat in your home builds up in the attic, which is combined with the heat beating down on the roof from the outside. Asphalt shingle roofs absorb heat, which can undermine their structural integrity and cause cracking, blistering and other problems down the road. Insulating your attic is a great way to keep your home more comfortable, reduce your energy bills and extend the life or your roof.
#6. Make sure that your attic is properly ventilated.
Insulating and ventilation seem like opposite things, but they are both essential for a healthy, long-lasting roof. During the peak of summer, your attic could reach a staggering 160 degrees Fahrenheit! A buildup of heat in the attic can lead to shingle decay and warped attic rafters. Ventilation is essential because it allows this heat to escape from your attic, keeping it away from your roof. However, ventilation is also important in the winter. Without proper ventilation, hot spots in your attic can melt the snow on the roof, which then refreezes when it reaches the eaves and gutters. This creates what’s called ice dams, and they prevent moisture from escaping your roof and lead to leaks.
Schedule your roofing inspection today!
There are many things that you can do to get more life out of your roof, but the most important is to stay on top of roofing inspections. How can you fix a problem when you don’t know that it exists? With regular roofing inspections, you’ll stay up to date on the state of your roof, and you’ll be able to get the prompt repairs and maintenance you need to keep it in great shape. Schedule your roofing inspection with the professionals at Adept Construction today.
