Every structure in your home needs some level of maintenance throughout the years, and your asphalt roofing is no different. Like any part of your house, it requires regular upkeep to stay in prime condition and live up to its expected lifespan. Neglecting this routine is one of the biggest reasons behind premature wear and tear, leaks, and other damages.
But, how does one properly maintain an asphalt shingle roof? If you’re searching for instructions on how to protect your system and ensure its longevity, read on. We’ve provided a comprehensive roof maintenance checklist below!
How do you properly care for roof shingles?
Aside from ensuring proper installation for your asphalt roofing, knowing how to maintain roof shingles is the most important thing to ensure their strength and longevity. Proper upkeep will prolong their life, but it’s also a way to make sure that you’re reaping all the benefits that asphalt shingle roofs have to offer.
Whether you’re just getting familiar with asphalt shingle roofing or if it has been your go-to option, this checklist will help you keep track of all the steps of proper upkeep. Here are the most important elements of asphalt roof maintenance:
1. Regular inspections
With regular inspections done by professionals, you can identify any potential issues early. It’s a way to prevent minor problems from escalating into major ones, but there’s more to inspections than that. Experts can help you detect and address all issues, provide asphalt shingle maintenance tips tailored to your situation, and much more. Aim to schedule these inspections at least once or twice a year, especially after periods of extreme weather.
2. Cleaning the shingles
Like any other surface, roofs also tend to collect a buildup of debris which can damage your structure and retain moisture that may lead to further deterioration. Pay attention to the state of your roof, and organize cleanup from time to time to prevent this. Additionally, a clean roof makes it easier to spot any structural issues while they’re still easy to fix and helps maintain your home’s curb appeal.
3. Removing moss
Organic matter such as moss can also easily accumulate on your roof’s surface. It may not look that bad once it first appears, but moss can cause a lot of damage over time. Removing it promptly is important to prevent the degradation of your shingles and underlying structures. Unlike debris, moss is organic, which means that manual removal is sometimes not enough to prevent it from quickly returning. Luckily, experts rely on a specialized approach for this issue.
4. Protection from snow
With the harsh local weather conditions, one of the most important tasks of safeguarding your home is learning how to address the snow and ice buildup in winter. Both accumulated snow and ice can cause significant strain and damage. To avoid this, you should either schedule regular snow cleanups for winter or look for ways to upgrade your system to prevent accumulation.
5. Addressing minor repairs promptly
Even small issues like missing or damaged shingles or minor leaks can lead to water intrusion and extensive damage if not addressed quickly. With regular inspections and proper roof maintenance, the cost of repairs is going to be much lower than in a case where the issue turns into a major one. Prompt reaction can save you a lot of money and extend the life of the whole structure.
What’s the best way to clean asphalt shingles?
As mentioned, it’s extremely important to clean an asphalt roof regularly to ensure its longevity. The two most common techniques include pressure washing and chemical solutions. Both of these methods have their benefits and potential drawbacks, which is why it’s important to assess the situation properly before choosing a method.
The type of material, the kind of buildup, and many other factors influence this decision. For example, pressure washing is sometimes considered too harsh for asphalt shingles, especially if they’re older or of lower quality. Chemicals, on the other hand, can damage the plants around your home if there are no gutters to direct runoff away.
However, qualified experts know how to combine these methods and others to make the surface pristine without causing damage. Count on the professionals to inspect the issue and craft a plan that works best for your specific circumstances, and you can rest assured that your roof’s integrity won’t be compromised in the process.
What is the safest way to remove moss from a roof?
Moss, as well as mold, lichen, and other types of organic growth, can be removed from your roof using the same means as those used for general cleaning, meaning a combination of washing and mild chemicals. Still, not all homes have the same issue with moss and other organic growth, so it’s important to address the issue in a way that works for your situation.
Another great method for removing moss and organic growth is to use a pressure washer on a roof with installed zinc strips. These are small strips usually placed right below the ridgeline so that the rainwater reacts with them and inhibits any growth as it flows down the surface. Many shingles today come with granules pre-treated with zinc and copper, but these strips can be a much-needed additional line of defense for especially problematic areas.
How to find reliable experts who can help extend the life of my asphalt shingles?
How to find reliable experts who can help extend the life of my asphalt shingles?Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your asphalt shingle roof reaches its full lifespan. At Horch Roofing, we specialize in professional maintenance and repair services, ensuring your system stays in top condition.
Beyond asphalt shingle roofs, we also handle – and install – standing seam metal, EPDM rubber roofs, and seamless gutters. We’re your go-to experts for all your roofing needs, whether you’re in Portland or another location in Coastal Maine. Trust us to protect your home with our high-quality services.