Three Maintenance Tips To Protect Your Roof
From The San Antonio Elements
Regular Maintenance Protects Against
Wind, Rain, Sun, And Hail
The average roof lasts 20 – 30 years. However, if you take proper care of it, your roof could last for far longer. That’s why many homeowners throughout San Antonio consider a roof tune-up and other maintenance steps. Regular maintenance helps protect it from the elements and increases its longevity.
Regular care, such as occasional cleaning and necessary roof repairs, keeps minor issues that arise naturally from becoming big problems.
By protecting it from wind, rain, mildew growth, and other acts of nature, you stave off roof replacement and minimize the cost of repairs. Below are some essential maintenance tips to limit the amount of damage your roof must withstand from the elements.
1. Roof Tune-Ups Keep Your Roof In Good Shape
A roof tune-up is a proactive approach to residential roofing maintenance. It ensures your roof remains watertight, in good condition, and sturdy.
It involves a thorough inspection of the roof, including the outer layer, underlayment, and rafters. Technicians check for lost or damaged shingles and scrutinize flashing (the metal protectors surrounding roof penetrations like vents, chimneys, and drain openings).
They perform a visual inspection of the roof to detect storm damage and repair any issues they discover. They secure loose shingles and replace any that are missing. They remove rust spots and treat them with an anti-corrosion solution. They repair or replace cracked tiles and ensure the roof is weathertight.
Nearly every type of roof can use a roof tune-up. For instance, asphalt shingles shed granules, loosen, and blow away, while metal roofs can rust and clay tiles can crack under impact from severe hail and falling tree limbs.
If your roof is aging or has recently withstood a storm, schedule a roof tune-up to ensure it is in good condition and lasts as long as possible.
2. Trim Tree Branches Away From Your San Antonio Roof
Another vital step in maintaining your roof is to trim back overhanging tree branches. During high winds, the swaying limbs can buffet your house and damage shingles and siding.
To prevent this, have tree branches trimmed so they are at least ten feet away from the structure. The tree will still provide shade but won’t be as much of a threat during windstorms.
Trimming your tree limbs will also help during minor breezes. Swaying branches in even gentle breezes can damage or scrape shingles loose and put your home at risk of moisture infiltration. Prevent this by trimming back overhanging limbs every year once the snow has melted.
3. Clean And Treat Your San Antonio Roof For Moss
One of the biggest threats to your roof is the growth of moss. This plant grows roots that anchor it to your roof. These roots delve deep into the shingles and cause them to degrade and weaken.
Moreover, moss growth affects your home’s appearance and reduces its curb appeal. This can be detrimental if you are trying to sell the house or are facing sanctions from your homeowners association (HOA).
The roof is most at risk from moss during the warmer months in areas of the roof that are out of direct sunlight. This is the type of environment where moss tends to propagate.
To address the issue, hire a professional roof cleaning service to scrub it free of moss, lichen, and algae.
Once your roof is clean and has had time to dry, apply copper or zinc roof strips to it. These emit metal particles that prevent the growth of moss and lichen, and annual use prohibits the return of damaging vegetation to your shingles.
Turn To Your Local Roofing Experts
For Roof Tune-Up Service
At USA Home Roofing & Exteriors, we are committed to ensuring each customer receives a satisfactory, no-hassle experience. We install only the finest materials, follow all manufacturer recommendations, and REFUSE to cut corners on our work.We have accumulated 20-plus years of experience, so we have the expertise you need to install a new roof or keep your current roof in peak condition. If you want a roof tune-up in Bexar County, contact USA Home Roofing & Exteriors for a free quote.
