As a professional roofing company, we have the experience and expertise to know that there are many different ways that homeowners can expand the lifespan of their roofs. Roofs are a significant investment of time and money, so taking steps to help prolong their lifespan is crucial. From selecting the best roofing material for your home and environment to preventing ice dams and moisture buildup, there are a few basic actions homeowners can take to help improve the durability of their roofs. This short blog post will cover some tips our professional team recommends to help keep your roof in good shape. And when you need access to comprehensive roofing services, the team at Whiting Company can help.

Call (301) 218-5400 to connect with our friendly service team and schedule a free consultation at your earliest convenience!

Invest in Durable Roofing Material

Any roofer will tell you that choosing the correct material is one of the most important decisions you can make about your roof. While different designs and style fads have increased the popularity of certain kinds of roofing, there are a few fundamental principles to follow, and certain materials which are known to last much longer than others. Before choosing a material for your roof, it’s essential to consult with your contractor. During your consultation, you’ll be able to learn about the availability of the materials in question, as well as their suitability for your home and the climate. For instance, concrete, clay, and slate tiles last an incredibly long time, but they may be costly to access if you live somewhere more rural or without a producer nearby. Additionally, metal roofs can be pretty durable but are not suited to every building type. Picking the right material is essential to maximizing your roof’s lifespan.

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

One of the easiest ways to get the most out of your roof is to schedule regular inspections from a licensed professional. Inspections can identify minor issues before they become severe and flag any weak points of your roof that could become vulnerable over time. Roof inspectors also have the necessary safety equipment and expertise to get on top of your roof and closely examine it. They can look for issues and areas you may not recognize as a homeowner. As a small investment, regularly scheduled inspections can save you money in the long run and help you increase the lifespan of your roof.

Don’t Power Wash Your Shingles

While this tip may seem niche as it only applies to homeowners with shingle roofs, it’s still worth pointing out to a larger audience. Shingle roofs and many other materials are often sealed or treated with a top coating after installation to minimize moisture buildup and ensure the integrity of your roof. Although you may want to clean your roof, particularly after a storm or with the change of the seasons, power washing your shingles can loosen them and remove their protective coating. Manually cleaning your roof with a broom or other tool can be an excellent alternative to protect your roof in the long run.

Invest in Proper Attic Insulation

Although it may not seem immediately connected to the longevity of your roof, investing in proper insulation for your attics and around your roofing planes can help the lifespan of your roof. Installing a waterproof membrane or maintaining adequate insulation can prevent ice dams and leaks from snow melting on your roof. When improperly insulated, warm air from your attic can melt ice and snow buildup on your roof from below, potentially leading to moisture seeping through holes and cracks.

Clean Your Gutters Regularly

Regularly cleaning your gutters can help increase the lifespan of your roof by minimizing the buildup of water and moisture around the vulnerable edges of it. Gutters are strategically designed and placed to funnel water and material buildup away from your roof and safely onto the ground. Not clearing your gutters can prevent water from draining correctly and result in dirt, debris, and harmful materials buildup. These can deteriorate the seal on your roof and eventually lead to water damage.

Trim Nearby Tree Branches

A good practice for homeowners looking to keep their roofs and homes safe is to trim tree branches regularly. Besides their fall risk during storms and high winds, unruly trees with long branches can transfer pests and unwanted debris into your home. The clearer you can keep your roof, the longer it will last. When you trim overhanging branches and prune your trees regularly, you minimize the risk they may pose in the future and can help maximize your roof’s lifespan.

Leave Repairs to the Professionals

As tempting as it may be to take matters into your own hands when your roof is damaged, it’s best to leave roofing repairs to the professionals. Even if you notice missing or damaged shingles following a storm, performing personal work on your roof can cause long-term damage and sometimes void the warranty. When you hire a professional repair service, you get reliable contracting, honest pricing, and quality guarantees. Ensuring that professionals only work on your roof is a surefire way to extend its lifespan.

Minimize Ice Dams and Snow Buildup

While proper attic insulation can help minimize ice dams and snow buildup. However, another effective way to prevent snow and ice from leaking into your home is to manually clear it throughout the winter. While we encourage homeowners to clear off large piles of snow and ice, we caution people to ensure they’re safe or leave it to the professionals. There are plenty of ways to maximize your roof’s lifespan, but your physical safety and comfort should always be prioritized.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are plenty of ways that homeowners can help increase the lifespan of their roofs, the most important of which is relying on professional service and inspections from licensed services. And when you require repairs, maintenance, or any roofing service, the team at Whiting Company has you covered. Our friendly technicians have extensive experience and work tirelessly to satisfy the needs of our clients.

Call (301) 218-5400 to speak with our friendly team and book an appointment or inspection today!