All roofs have expected life spans, which can vary between roofing types. Asphalt shingle roofs, for example, are expected to last 20 to 30 years. To get the most years out of your roof, you have to take care of it, and avoid some mistakes along the way. Chase Roofing LLC takes a look at the most common mistakes that affect a roof’s life span.
Neglecting Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance
Gutters are generally considered as a separate system, but the truth is they are very much a part of the roof to which they’re attached. They also happen to be on the edges of the roof, which are the areas that are most vulnerable to wind and moisture damage. Keeping the gutters clean helps make sure that rainwater is properly routed toward the downspouts instead of overflowing at the troughs, preventing water infiltration at the roof’s edges.
Keeping a regular gutter cleaning and maintenance routine can help keep your gutters (and, in turn, your roof) in good shape. Having your gutters cleaned at least once a year, whether by yourself or by a professional, helps prevent clogging and avoids standing water in the gutter troughs. If your gutters are up for replacement, consider investing in features that can help reduce maintenance requirements, such as seamless gutters and gutter protection systems.
Poor Insulation and Ventilation
The natural movement of warm and humid air causes it to rise toward the highest point of the house, the attic. Trapped heat and humidity in the attic can cause damage to key roofing components: framing may rot, insulation may form clumps, and ice dams may form during winter. All of these problems can be prevented by making sure that the attic has sufficient ventilation and insulation. Your roofing contractor may recommend installing additional vents or correcting installation mistakes, as well as installing new insulation, if your roof is found wanting for both.
Not Pruning Nearby Trees
Trees on your property provide shade that can help cool down your home during hot days, as well as protect it from wind damage. However, keep an eye on the branches that are close to the roof. Sharp branches may be scraping the roof’s surface and exposing the underlying layers to moisture damage. They may also give small animals access to the roof. Hire a local arborist to prune the branches and maintain a 10-foot clearance between the outermost branches and the roof’s surface.
Chase Roofing LLC provides roofing services to customers in Yorktown, VA, and the surrounding communities. Give us a call at (757) 872-0700 or (757) 206-1948. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
