DIY Maintenance Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Roof

Our roofs have a pretty thankless job. Yet, they’re the most crucial part of our homes or businesses when it comes to keeping out the elements. They’re also one of the biggest expenses for which property owners have to prepare. Despite this, roof maintenance usually takes a backseat in the busyness of our daily lives. However, we offer a few simple DIY maintenance tips you can do to prolong the life of your roof. Read on to learn more!

Ways to Prolong the Life of Your Roof

There are a number of ways to prolong the life of your roof. Here are a few simple tips you can implement twice per year.

• Inspect caulking and sealant
• Trim overhanging tree limbs
• Remove debris and algae
• Inspect shingles for cracking or peeling

Inspect Caulking and Sealant

Most roofs have caulking and/or some type of sealant around chimneys, plumbing vent pipes, and other areas where there are seams. Over time, these materials break down from sunlight, rain, and wind. When this happens, they lose their ability to effectively keep water from penetrating – causing leaks. By inspecting these areas twice per year and re-applying caulk when necessary, you can prevent secondary damage to your roof system and potential leaks.

Trim Overhanging Tree Limbs

In North Central Florida, our neighborhoods are often lined with beautiful trees. They’re wonderful to look at and keep our cooling costs down in the summer. However, they also wreak havoc on our roofs. If you have overhanging limbs, they will fall during afternoon storms or hurricanes and could puncture the outer material and decking.

Additionally, if these limbs are attached to the tree but touch your roof, they will cause damage. Every time the wind blows, these limbs sway and rub against your roof surface. Whether you have shingles, metal, or tile, the friction will damage them over time. Keeping these trimmed back every year will not only boost your property’s curb appeal but will also prolong the life of your roof!

Remove Debris and Algae

Trees in North Central Florida drop their leaf litter and other debris nearly year-round. In the spring, the Live Oaks drop their leaves and catkins. Pine trees drop their needles almost continuously. And in the fall, the deciduous trees do their shedding. This constant cycle of leaves from evergreen and deciduous trees clogs gutters and easily covers our roofs with a semi-permanent layer of debris.

Additionally, small limbs and mistletoe frequently fall during afternoon thunderstorms. If left unchecked, this debris often traps water against your roof surface and breaks down the material. Roof stains via algae are also common on roofs, especially as they age. Algae cause higher roof surface temperatures and look unsightly. Properly removing this algae will protect your roof and prolong its lifespan.

Inspect Shingles For Cracking or Peeling

Lastly, if your roof is an asphalt shingle, it may begin to crack or peel with age. Therefore, it’s important to inspect your shingles periodically to make sure they’re not lifting away or curling upward. If they have cracks forming, it’s a sign that you need to start planning for a roof replacement. Granule loss will also leave your roof susceptible to leaks.

If you notice a lot of granules in your roof gutters, it’s an indicator that your roof may be nearing the end of its life.

Big D in Ocala, FL Can Help You Prolong the Life of Your Roof

By checking your roof regularly and getting ahead of potential problems, you will prolong the life of your roof.

If you suspect you may need roof repair or replacement, we can come out at no charge and inspect your roof. Working with a reputable local residential and commercial roofing company like Big D gives you the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home or business.

We provide exceptional customer service and follow industry best practices. We use high-quality roofing materials to provide our customers with beautiful shingle, metal, or tile roofs that last.

If your residential or commercial property is located in Ocala, FL, The Villages, FL, or the surrounding area, contact us today to get started on your roofing project!