Investing in proper maintenance is crucial for the performance and longevity of your roofing system. While this task might seem daunting at first, knowing which mistakes to avoid can make the process smooth sailing, leaving you with a roof that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Here are some common roof maintenance errors that you should avoid.
One of the main things you need to avoid is staying on top of things only once you start seeing problems. For instance, a storm can chip away at the flashing material around your roof vent but not introduce water damage right away. This is why it is important to inspect your roof after a severe weather event so that you can detect potential issues at their earliest stages and put a stop to them ahead of time.
Not many homeowners realize it, but gutters and downspouts are important aspects of the roofing system. If your gutters are clogged with leaves, branches, animal droppings and other debris, it can cause a wide array of water-related problems, such as basement flooding, soil erosion and roof leaks. Experts recommend clearing out your gutters twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall.
When it is time to get rid of debris buildup sitting on your roof, using a pressure washer might be the first solution to spring to mind. However, high-pressure water can actually be harmful to your roof as it can remove ceramic-coated granules embedded in your asphalt shingles. Without these granules, your roof does not have enough protection against ultraviolet rays and extreme temperature changes, making it vulnerable to premature deterioration.
The Great American Roofing Company specializes in residential and commercial roofing services, from inspection and maintenance to storm and hail damage repair. Give us a call today at (201) 825-2955 or fill out our contact form to get in touch with one of our roofing specialists.