VWB Blog Everyone knows roofs are essential. But did you know that they play a critical role in the energy efficiency of your home? That’s right: if you want to lower your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint, then one of the best things you can do is invest in a quality roofing system.
As such, it’s worth taking some time to learn more about what makes for an efficient roof. And we’ve got just the thing: these eight tips will teach you how to ensure that your roof lasts for decades—and maybe even centuries.
Use high-quality materials (such as metal or tile shingles)
While most roofs are made out of asphalt shingles, that doesn’t mean they work well. Asphalt is fragile and wears down quickly, making it necessary to replace your roof every 15 or 20 years.
That’s why you should upgrade to a more durable option like metal or tile shingles if possible. Among the good choices are rubber shingles or even slate tiles. You can seek advice from roof professionals who do replacements and upgrades to learn more about these options.
Protect your roof from sun and water damage
Your roof needs to endure a lot of punishment over the years: the heat of the sun, inclement weather, and moisture can all take their toll, wearing down your roof much faster than you’d expect.
You can do several things to protect your roof from these elements. One is to install a roof coating to reflect the sun’s heat and help keep your roof in good condition. You can also install gutters and downspouts to divert rainwater from your roof and use snow guards to keep snow and ice from building up on your roof and damaging it.
Regularly clean your roof
Even if you take all the precautions listed above, your roof won’t last long if you don’t clean it regularly. Debris like leaves, branches, and moss can accumulate on your top over time and cause damage.
That’s why it’s essential to clean your roof at least once a year. Just make sure that you take the time to do it properly, and don’t forget to clean your gutters as well! You can do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Trim nearby trees
Trees are one of the biggest threats to your roof. Not only do their branches and leaves create a mess, but their roots can also damage your roofing system.
That’s why you should trim any trees near your home—especially those that are close to your roof. This will help keep your roof in good condition and improve the appearance of your property.
Check for damage after storms
One of the most common causes of roof damage is storms. If you live in an area that regularly gets hit by harsh weather, you need to take extra precautions to protect your roof.
This means making sure that tree branches are regularly trimmed and checking for any damage after a storm rolls through. You can also hire professionals for this work.
Mark holes before you fix them
If you end up with a hole in your roof, don’t just fix it without thinking. It would be best if you took the time to properly seal and waterproof the area so that you don’t have any more problems.
One way to do this is to use metal flashing. This is a thin strip of metal installed around the hole and helps keep water from seeping through. You can also use roofing cement or caulk to seal the hole. Just make sure that you mark the spot before you start repairing it to know where to apply the sealant.
Pay Attention to Drainage
If you want your roof to last as long as possible, you need to pay attention to its drainage. Poor drainage can cause several problems, including water damage, mold growth, and even structural damage.
That’s why it’s vital to ensure that your gutters and downspouts are working correctly and that your roof is correctly sloped so that water can drain away from it. You should also check for any leaks or drainage problems after a storm.
Get a professional inspection at least once a year
Even if you take all of these precautions, there’s no substitute for a professional inspection. A good roofing contractor will tell you if there are any problems with your roof and advise you on fixing them.
You should have your roof inspected at least once a year and more often if you live in an area that’s prone to storms or other extreme weather conditions.
Ensuring that your roof lasts as long as possible is essential for keeping your home safe and protecting your investment. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your roof is in good condition for years to come.
Roofs play a crucial role in protecting our homes from the elements, but they often don’t get the attention they deserve.