A durable roof is one of the most important investments you can make to protect your property. It’s also one of the most significant costs you’ll endure as a property owner. That’s why it’s important to protect your investment and ensure your roof lasts as long as possible without putting the interior of your building at risk.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to get the best possible return on investment. Here are six tips for extending the lifespan of your roof.
Conduct Annual Maintenance Inspections
A lot can happen in a year. The changing seasons and unexpected storms result in wear and tear on your roof. According to expert Greenville commercial roofers, prevention is the key to maintaining your roof. That means conducting regular inspections and making minor repairs before small issues become huge disasters.
Schedule an inspection at least once per year. If you’re in an area with extreme weather, plan an inspection during the spring and fall to review any damage caused by storm seasons. This strategy will provide the opportunity to make minor repairs to keep your roof watertight so you don’t experience the stress of water damage and rot.
Invest in Moss Removal
Moss tends to grow on roofs with shady areas, but this resilient life-form can grow anywhere. While it seems like a minor issue, moss can root through your roof covering over time, causing cracks and damage that could put your building at risk and increase your need for repairs.
Fortunately, this issue is fairly straightforward to solve. If there are trees around your building, trim back any branches that are hanging over the roof. You can also get an environmentally-friendly solution to eliminate the moss. This process is best left to the experts with proper safety equipment and experience.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Gutters play an important role in reducing stress on your roof. If your gutters aren’t clean, the water will have nowhere to go and will sit against the edges of your roof. This can lead to interior leaks, mold development, and roof rot. If you live in an area with ice and snow, this can also prevent proper drainage, creating ice dams and pressure damage.
Cleaning the gutters (or drainage holes if you have a flat roof) is a simple task that prevents expensive damage. Schedule this maintenance task at least once per year, ideally after the leaves have fallen in autumn.
Monitor Your Interior Ventilation and Insulation
It’s a common misconception that caring for your roof solely depends on exterior maintenance. However, your interior ventilation and insulation also impact your roof’s longevity. If you have inadequate ventilation or air quality control, your building is susceptible to mold development. As heat rises, your ceiling and the underbelly of your roof are at risk.
Insulation is also important for minimizing heat in the attic or roof area. Extreme temperatures can warm the wood under your roof and make it degrade faster.
Choose a Durable Material for Replacements
When it comes time for a roof replacement, choose a roofing material that’s built to last. Many residential and commercial property owners are investing in metal roofs, which can last more than 30 years with proper care.
While longer-lasting roofs tend to have higher up-front costs, they pay for themselves in the long run.
Work with a Skilled Roofing Contractor
Finally, work with a roofer who has a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and dedication to a job well done. A roofer who takes the time to ensure everything is sealed and uses only the highest quality materials is essential for getting the best possible return on your investment.
Keep these tips in mind when scheduling your annual maintenance tasks. Preventative care will help extend the lifespan of your roof by years.
