The typical residential roof is designed to last about 20–25 years, but getting to that many years before your roof needs to be replaced requires ongoing maintenance. Here are a few tips professional roofers give homeowners on how to keep your roof in great shape for the long haul.

A Guide to Maintaining Your Roof

1. Clean the Gutters 

Gutters help channel water away from the roof, but if they are clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, water can back up under the shingles and cause damage. Clogged gutters may lead to interior leaks and cause the gutters themselves to pull away from the fascia boards, sag, or even fall off. Roofers recommend cleaning the gutters in the spring and fall and inspecting them regularly to ensure they are securely attached and don't have any cracks, leaks, or other damage that needs repair. 

2. Trim Trees

Trim back any low-hanging or big branches above your house. Tree branches hanging over your roof may break and fall off, tearing up shingles and flashing or making a hole. Even if the branches don't break, they can scrape granules off the shingles, reducing their ability to channel water off the roof and increasing the risk of a leak. 

Tree branches covering the roof also block sunlight. This can keep it from drying after rain, allowing moss, mold, and mildew to grow. Over time, this causes the shingles to deteriorate, allowing water to penetrate the roof decking and creating leaks and structural damage.

3. Make Repairs 

Any time you notice an issue with your roof, contact a professional roofer for repairs. Loose or missing shingles, loose nails, damaged flashing, and damaged gutters are some of the most common minor problems that are easily repaired before they cause more significant issues. 

You may also need repair if you discover a pest infestation inside your home. Birds, rodents, and insects often gain entry via damage to the roof. Once the pests have been managed, fix any holes and other problems they have caused to keep them from coming back and to preserve the roof against further invasion.

If you need to schedule an inspection or repair for your roof, come to My Roofing in Kaneohe, HI. For the last 35 years, homeowners across Oahu have turned to this team for experienced, reliable roofing services, including inspection, replacement, and reroofing. These qualified professionals will keep your roof in great shape and ensure that small problems are repaired before they cause extensive damage. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 352-7272 to schedule an inspection or repairs.