Your roof protects your home from wind, water, debris, and even pests, so it’s in your best interest to keep it in good condition.
If you’re not sure how to maintain your asphalt shingle roof, don’t worry. Here are five essential maintenance tasks that will help you protect your home, prevent future costly repairs, and extend the life span of your asphalt roof:
1. Schedule a Routine Roof Inspection
One of the best ways to ensure that your asphalt shingle roof is in good shape is by scheduling routine inspections.
Your roofing contractor will thoroughly examine your roof, taking note of any damage or potential issues you wouldn’t be able to see from the ground and recommending any necessary repairs.
You should schedule routine roof inspections twice a year — in the spring and the fall.
2. Inspect Attic Insulation & Ventilation
Ice dams occur when warm air from the attic causes the snow to melt on your roof, only to refreeze along the edge. This cycle of freezing and thawing causes the melted ice to penetrate your asphalt shingles, damaging them and the ceiling below.
You should have a professional inspect for clear ventilation for your soffit and eave vents and adequate attic insulation.
3. Trim Overhanging Branches
Overgrown branches can cause serious damage to your asphalt roof. All it takes is one bad storm with strong winds or heavy snow to make the branches snap.
If they hang over your roof, they could loosen or lift shingles or puncture the roof, letting moisture, pests, and debris into your home.
Keep your landscaping trimmed to prevent these hazards and protect your roof.
4. Clear Away Moss
Can you see moss on your asphalt shingle roof? Moss isn’t just unsightly — it can lead to roofing issues.
Moss can grow between shingles, causing them to lift. It’s also absorbent and can soak up water like a sponge, which leads to ice dams.
We don’t recommend climbing on your roof to remove the moss, but you can:
- Safely climb on a ladder
- Spray the moss with a DIY or store-bought moss cleaner
- Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes
- Rinse using a garden hose with low-pressure water
- Pull any remaining moss loose by hand
Don’t use a brush or pressure washer if any moss remains because it could damage your shingles. Consult a trusted roofing contractor for next steps.
5. Clean Gutters & Install Gutter Guards
Keeping your gutters clean is essential if you want to protect your roof. Your gutters can clog and overflow, causing water damage to your shingles. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to ensure proper drainage.
We recommend installing gutter guards to minimize maintenance and keep debris out of your gutters in the first place.
Choose Colonial Contracting, Inc. for Roofing Services in Northern Virginia
We always provide free, no-obligation roof inspections. Whether you want routine service to keep your roof in optimal condition or you need roof replacement or repair because of storm damage, Colonial Contracting, Inc. can help.
Contact us online or call 703-754-9551 today to schedule your asphalt shingle roof inspection.
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