Residential roofing contractors know that maintenance can help in keeping your roof in good condition all the time. With the right level of care and maintenance, a roof can last for as long as it is expected to, or even longer – potentially extending its lifespan by 5-10 years. Regular roof inspections can also help identify any roof issues and prevent them from causing significant damage to your roof. As a homeowner, you need to be familiar with all of these maintenance practices.
Here are some essential tips for roof maintenance to help homeowners properly care for and maintain their roofs.
| Maintenance Task | DIY Suitable? | Frequency | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Roof Inspection | Yes | Twice yearly (spring & fall) | Use binoculars from ground for safety |
| Roof Washing | Yes | As needed for algae/streaks | Use water & bleach; avoid high-pressure washers |
| Gutter Cleaning | Yes | Twice yearly minimum | Ensure water directs away from foundation |
| Moss & Mildew Treatment | Yes | Annually | Apply zinc/copper preventive treatments |
| Tree Trimming | Caution | As needed | 75-80% of homeowners hire professionals |
| Attic Ventilation Check | No | During professional inspection | Requires expertise to assess proper airflow |
| Comprehensive Roof Inspection | No | Annually or semi-annually | Professionals detect issues not visible from ground |
Check your roof regularly
The first tip is to check your roof at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall, especially after strong winds or storms. You don’t have to climb up to your roof just to do this. Just get a good pair of binoculars then check the condition of your roof from the outside. Evaluate if there are visible signs of damage such as missing or curled shingles, cracks, holes, peeling flashing, or granules loss. Pay attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these areas are prone to water intrusion. If you notice any of these issues, call expert residential roofing contractors right away and have your roof repaired. Remember that full roof replacement costs between $7,000 and $26,000, making these simple visual checks a smart investment.
Wash your roof
Another important maintenance tip is to wash your roof. The roof will eventually start to seem soiled with long, dark streaks extending from the peak to the eave. The algae are growing here and although it won’t harm your roof right away, if you let it grow for a long enough period of time, it will ruin them eventually. If you want to avoid this, wash your roof with a mixture of water and bleach. The algae will be killed instantly by the bleach. However, avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can damage the shingles.
Clean your gutters
No roof maintenance checklist would be complete without this. Cleaning out your gutters may be a dirty job but it is necessary to keep your roof in good condition. Debris can clog your gutters and can cause stagnant water leading to your gutters sagging or pulling away from your house. It can also cause water to seep through the interiors of your roof and even to your exterior walls causing significant damage to your home in general. Additionally, ensure that water is directed away from your foundation to prevent water damage. Thus, always make sure to clean your gutters from any debris and most experts recommend doing this at least twice a year.
Treat for moss and mildew annually
The humid climate in Georgia provides an ideal environment for moss and algae growth. The growth of moss and mildew on your roof can cause significant damage to your home in general. If you want to avoid this, remove these growths as soon as you notice them. Call expert residential roofing contractors to do the job and make sure to apply preventive treatments afterward. You can use zinc and copper to stop the moss and mildew from returning once the roof is already clean and dry. They are very effective and efficient in doing so.
Trim overhanging trees
Tree branches can fall on your roof, especially during bad weather. This may result in holes, cracks, or splits in your roof, which could eventually create water leaks and cause significant damage to the interiors of your home. So make sure to remove any huge branches that are hanging straight over your roof. You can do this yourself but make sure you have the right tools and equipment to safely trim those overhanging trees. However, 75-80% of homeowners hire professionals for repairs, and many choose to have professionals handle tree trimming as well to avoid safety risks.
Ensure proper attic ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is essential for maintaining your roof’s health. Inadequate ventilation leads to excess heat buildup, causing shingle damage and premature aging. It also allows moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth and wood rot. Proper ventilation prevents these issues by maintaining consistent airflow and reducing heat transfer. During your professional roof inspection, have your contractor assess whether your attic ventilation is adequate for your home’s size and design.
Get a professional roof inspection
After you’ve done all the maintenance tips provided above, the next best thing you should do is to have your roof professionally inspected. This is necessary because professional roofing contractors can identify any issues that you might have overlooked. They can also provide expert recommendations and advice on how you can properly maintain your roof all year round. Given the typical 20-30 year lifespan of asphalt shingles, annual inspections help track your roof’s aging and condition. Some experts would recommend that you get professional roof inspections every two years, but doing so annually or semi-annually will boost your chances of spotting possible problems before they worsen and require expensive repairs or replacement.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Lifespan Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Maintenance (Annual) | $300 – $1,000 | Extends roof life 5-10 years |
| Minor Repairs | $300 – $1,000 | Prevents escalation to major damage |
| Full Roof Replacement | $7,000 – $26,000 | 20-30 years (asphalt shingles) |
Looking for Residential Roofing Contractors to Handle Roof Maintenance and Inspection?
Platinum Roofing is your best option. We will help maintain your roof to ensure it’s in its best condition all the time. We will also conduct fast, affordable, and reliable roof inspections to provide you with a clean and honest assessment of your roof’s condition. We have the skills and experience needed to effectively catch any roof issues before they turn into serious problems. Call us today to get a free estimate!
What are the warning signs that my roof needs immediate professional attention?
Beyond visible shingle damage, watch for interior signs like water stains on ceilings, musty odors in the attic, or increased energy bills indicating poor insulation. Sagging areas, daylight visible through roof boards, and granules accumulating in gutters also signal urgent issues requiring professional evaluation.
How does Georgia’s climate specifically affect residential roof maintenance needs?
Georgia’s high humidity and warm temperatures accelerate algae, moss, and mildew growth on roofing materials. The region’s severe weather patterns, including heavy storms and occasional hurricanes, make post-storm inspections particularly important. These climate factors often require more frequent preventive treatments than in drier climates.
Can I perform roof maintenance during certain seasons, or are some times better than others?
Spring and fall are ideal for roof maintenance when temperatures are moderate and conditions are dry. Avoid winter maintenance when ice can make surfaces dangerously slippery, and summer’s extreme heat can make shingles brittle and unsafe to walk on.
What should I look for when choosing a roofing contractor for inspections?
Verify the contractor holds proper licensing and insurance, including workers’ compensation and liability coverage. Check for local references, membership in professional roofing associations, and manufacturers’ certifications. A reputable contractor provides detailed written assessments and explains findings clearly without pressure tactics.
How do I maintain different roofing materials compared to asphalt shingles?
Metal roofs require checking for rust and loose fasteners, while tile roofs need broken tile replacement and underlayment monitoring. Wood shakes demand more frequent moss treatment and rot inspection. Each material has unique maintenance requirements beyond the general practices applicable to standard asphalt shingles.
