Your roof quietly protects you and your belongings from the elements. However, over time, exposure to the elements such as rain, wind, and the harsh sun damages a roof, causing leaks and shortening its lifespan. Luckily, with regular maintenance, you can protect your roof and avoid costly repairs. Keep reading to learn three shingle roofing maintenance tips. 

A Guide to Shingle Roofing Maintenance

1. Regular Inspections

Instead of climbing on top of your house to inspect your roof, it's safer to use a pair of binoculars to thoroughly scan for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Damaged shingles allow water to seep into the structure of your roof. Once the materials under the shingles become wet, they are susceptible to mold, mildew, and rotting, which leads to leaks and further damage. 

As you scan the roof from the ground, try to look for areas of missing granules. These small mineral particles protect shingles from ultraviolet light, slowing their deterioration. Without these granules, your roof becomes susceptible to further damage. Finally, check the flashing, which is made of thin metal strips along the sides of the roof and around skylights and chimneys. Scheduling regular maintenance with a roofing contractor will make sure damage, including missing granules or faulty flashing, is noticed and repaired before it becomes a major problem. 

2. Clean the Gutters

When gutters get clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, rainwater is unable to properly drain off your roof. Instead, it pools and seeps under the shingles. Over time, the wet materials on your roof will begin to rot and weaken the roof's structural integrity, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and even greater damage. 

Clogged gutters can also damage other parts of your home, as water is forced down walls and windows and into foundations, sidewalks, and driveways. Signs that your gutters are clogged include sagging, stains on the exterior walls, or birds and pests hanging around the roof. Check your gutters for clogging frequently and schedule regular cleaning at least twice a year.

3. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Tree branches can damage shingle roofing in several ways. As limbs sway in the wind, they can scrape away the protective granules on your shingles. Falling leaves can make their way under the shingles, trap moisture, and cause mold and rot. Tree leaves and debris are also major culprits of clogged gutters. Finally, heavy branches can fall onto the roof, damaging the shingles and structural elements. To avoid this costly damage, trim tree branches at least six feet away from the roof.

Scheduling regular maintenance and repairs will help keep your roof in good condition and extend its lifespan. On Top Roofing LLC in Hawaii Kai, HI, specializes in shingle roofing, roof installation, repair, and coating. They serve both residential and commercial clients and provide affordable, effective solutions to meet any budget. They also offer a 100% guarantee on all their workmanship. Call them today at (808) 304-4007  to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their company.