5 Asphalt Shingle Maintenance Tips

A new roof is a major investment. A well-maintained roof will protect your home for years to come. Follow these five roof maintenance tips to get the most out of your asphalt shingle roof.

1. Schedule regular roof inspections. Taking a proactive approach can help you save money and make your asphalt shingle roof last longer. Professional roofers can quickly identify potential and existing problems so you can make repairs before minor issues turn into large costly repair projects. A yearly roof inspection is an essential part of maintaining your asphalt shingle roof.
2. Trim overhanging branches. Overhanging tree branches can scrape against your roof. Consequently, this can damage asphalt shingles by causing the granules to fall off. Once the granules fall off, the exposed asphalt underneath will rapidly deteriorate under the sun, leading to roof leaks later on. Additionally, twigs and leaves from encroaching branches can block your home’s gutters.
3. Remove debris. Large amounts of debris buildup on your roof can impede the flow of water. In some unusual circumstances, if you have a large amount of debris on your roof, water can be forced into an area of the roof that wouldn’t normally be vulnerable. If you can safely access your roof, we recommend clearing debris away. However, it is important to keep in mind that just having a few sticks or leaves on your roof is completely normal. 
4. Clear your gutters. Blocked gutters can cause all kinds of issues. If you do not have gutter guards, leaves, twigs, and pine needles can accumulate in your gutters and cause blockage. If you can safely access your roof, visually inspect the inside of your gutters. Make sure your gutters are clear so they can do their job effectively. While you are there, look for signs of granule loss. If you do find a buildup of shingle granules in your gutters, this could indicate roof shingle damage and you should contact a roofer for an inspection.
5. Check for missing or damaged shingles and flashings. If you notice any missing or damaged shingles, have a professional replace them immediately. Missing or damaged shingles can expose your home to roof leaks and water damage.  Also, take a look at your roof and pipe flashings. Roof flashing protects your home from water damage by diverting water from certain areas of the roof. If damaged, water can get into areas that would not normally be susceptible to leaks. Pipe flashings are more likely to crack and erode due to age and can cause roofing leaks as well.  If you notice anything unusual, it is best to call a professional roofer for repairs.

Roof maintenance is an essential part of home ownership. Protect your investment and prolong the life of your roof by following these five asphalt shingle roof maintenance tips. For more information about asphalt roofing systems, check out this guide by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) . If you are interested in a free roofing assessment, be sure to give us a call at (719) 487-7663 or contact us online.