Five Ways To Prolong The Life Of Your Asphalt Shingle Roof

As a responsible homeowner, you want your roof to last a long time. Fortunately, there are things you can do to achieve these goals.

1. Annual Inspections

Schedule a professional inspection with a roofing contractor once a year. For a small fee, the roofer will inspect the main surface of your roof, the eaves, and the attic to make sure there are no developing problems. The earlier you find an issue and repair it, the less likely it is that it will lead to the need for a premature roof replacement.

2. Eave Painting

The eaves of your roof are likely made of wood. In this case, they will need a fresh coat of paint every couple of years to prevent them from developing rot. The eaves themselves must be inspected for damage such as cracking or soft wood. The vents in the soffits under the eaves may also need to be cleaned and re-screened periodically. Your roofer can install upgraded aluminum eaves so you don't have to worry about rot and painting anymore, if you desire.

3. Gutter Maintenance

Gutters aren't necessarily a part of the roof, but they affect your roof in a big way. Leaking gutters can lead to eave damage and damage to the shingles along the drip line of your roof. Frequent backing up and overflowing can also cause ice dams to form on the roof in winter, which may lead to leaks and shingle damage. Keep the gutters clean and in good repair so that they don't cause any of these problems on your roof.

4. Damage Repairs

Any damage should be repaired promptly if you want to prevent a premature roof replacement. Although annual professional inspections will eventually catch the damage, catching it as early as possible is best. Perform a quick visual inspection following any storm or wind event. There's no need to climb on the roof, simply look for loose or damaged shingles from the ground. Schedule a quick repair so you won't have to pay for a full replacement.

5. Moss Prevention

Moss on the roof adds unnecessary weight. It can also trap moisture that will eventually seep under shingles. You can have the roof professionally cleaned each year to prevent moss, but there is a better option. Your roofer can install zinc strips under the shingles near your roof's peak. These strips are invisible so they don't detract from your home's appearance, but they prevent moss and algae growth from affecting your roof.

Contact a roofing contractor for more help with your asphalt shingle roof.

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