If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t spend too much time thinking about the condition of your roof. If it needed a major repair or, even worse a replacement, you’d probably think about it then! But replacing a roof can be a big financial hit while regular maintenance will cost only your time. Read on to learn some roof maintenance tasks you can do to prevent costly problems and save money in the long run by making your roof last as long as possible!

Install Proper Ventilation and Adequate Insulation.

This is among the most critical, and often overlooked, factors in extending the life of your roof. Without proper ventilation, a buildup of heat and moisture in your attic can lead to roof rot and diminished insulation efficiency. In winter months, a poorly ventilated attic is a key contributor to the formation of damaging ice dams. In short, properly insulated attic spaces allow your roof to perform as efficiently as possible.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear.

Leaves, twigs and other debris can clog your gutter system, causing expensive water leaks in your attic and interior living spaces. If they are clogged, gutters and downspouts can’t channel water and snowmelt away from your home. You’ll also want to inspect your gutters for signs of damage.

Trim Your Trees.

While trees around your home can provide shade during the summer – they can cause damage to your home in the fall and winter if they are not trimmed back. The extra weight of ice to tree limbs can cause them to snap and break – and if they are long enough branches can damage shingles by brushing up against them.

Inspect Flashings.

Did you know that 90% of the time, a roof leak is the result of improper roof installation or defective metal flashing?  Roof flashing consists of metal strips installed where the main body of the roof meets up with the home’s siding, chimneys or skylights. Because many roof leaks begin at these connection points, check the flashings for holes, cracks, or other signs of damage or deterioration.

Perform Regular Inspections.

It’s a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor perform a routine inspection on a regular basis. Look for signs of damage on the roof surfaces, as well as in the attic and interior of your home. Small leaks or minor damage can often be repaired for little cost. Ignoring them, and allowing them to become major problems, can be a very expensive mistake.

 

Request An Inspection Today!

Unpredictable storms create unpredictable problems. That’s why it’s important to choose the right roofing and siding professional to inspect the integrity of your home after a storm. It’s important to find someone who is local, properly certified, efficient, courteous, and available to complete your warranty work. All of which you’ll find working with Millersberg Construction. Contact us today at 507-301-3626 to request a free, no-obligation inspection or use our online contact form!