A roof protects your home and family from the outdoor elements. What can you do to protect it? While a roof typically lasts 15-20 years, that’s only if they are properly taken care of. However, many roofs in the Treasure Valley don’t reach their expected lifespan due to poor maintenance. If you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars replacing it early, it’s essential to properly maintain it while preventing numerous repairs in the process. That’s why the Boise contractor at Pacific Home & Patio would like to provide you with the following tips for extending the life of your roof.
Regular Inspections
Roof issues are often unexpected. That’s because most homeowners are not aware of the state and condition of their roofs. How do you extend its lifespan? The answer is simple 一 regular inspections. As a homeowner, it’s essential to inspect your roof at least once a year, especially any weak spots. These include skylights. Take the time to check around their edges as debris often gets stuck, compromising the seal. If a seal is cracked or worn, it’s important to have them resealed. This will prevent water from entering your home and causing property damage.
Flashings are another essential part of a roof. They can collect debris and dirt and are prone to leaks. Inspect the materials of your roof also. Make sure your shingles, shakes, and metal decking aren’t cracked or lifting. If you spot any signs of damage, it’s essential to have them repaired or replaced immediately. Last but not least, check the underside of your roof inside your attic. Look for water stains as they indicate leaks and a compromised roof. Furthermore, it’s important to make sure your attic is properly ventilated to prevent moisture that promotes the growth of dangerous mold that can damage your roof and make your family sick.
Although you can do your best to inspect your roof on your own, it’s best to hire a Boise contractor to do it for you. At Pacific Home & Patio, we can spot the earliest signs of damage so that you can get them repaired and extend the lifespan of your roof.
Keep it Clean
It’s commonly known that by keeping your roof clean, you will extend its lifespan. However, not everyone makes an effort. It’s essential to clear any debris from your roof. Debris can trap moisture, which can damage the materials of your roof over time. Debris can also pile up and become too heavy, affecting the structural integrity of your roof. Furthermore, debris can block the flow of water, damaging it in the process. If you have any nearby trees with low-hanging branches over your roof, make sure to have them trimmed.
You should also watch for any signs of algae or fungus. A moist environment allows them to proliferate. This can cause unsightly black streaks and premature aging while damaging your roof in the process. Last but not least, keep your gutters clean as leaves and debris can get stuck in them, preventing the proper flow of water. This can not only destroy your gutters over time, but it can also prevent water from draining, resulting in damaging ice dams in the winter.
Pacific Home & Patio
Doing all these things may seem overwhelming. Besides that, if you aren’t a trained and experienced professional, you may miss some crucial things the Boise contractor at Pacific Home & Patio would not. That’s why it’s always best to hire an expert to get the job done right.
As the number one Boise contractor in the Treasure Valley, we offer over 50+ years helping homeowners with all of their roofing, patio, siding, and windows and doors projects. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your roof, contact us by filling out our online form or give our Boise office a call at (208) 376-0000 for a free consultation.
