Maintaining Your Shingle Roof Throughout The Year
Asphalt roofing is one of the cheapest and most lightweight types of roofing material commonly used for residential roofs, yet with the proper care, it can be a durable, long-lasting solution capable of protecting your home for decades. However, we strongly advise giving your shingle roof a little TLC throughout the year to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.
Different seasons bring unique challenges, so adapting your maintenance routine accordingly can go a long way toward protecting your roof from wear and tear. Here's how to maintain your asphalt roofing through each season for optimal durability and longevity.
Spring: Inspect and Clean
Spring is the ideal time to inspect your asphalt roofing for any potential damage it may have accrued over the winter. Start by checking for any missing or loose shingles that could have been affected by snow or ice. Look for any signs of algae or moss growth, which can start to appear during damp springtime weather. If you notice damaged shingles, dark splotchy roof stains, or any other issues, you may need to bring in a roofing company for repairs.
Spring is also the perfect time to clean your roof. Leaves, branches, and debris can accumulate over the winter months, potentially blocking your gutters and preventing proper drainage. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts will ensure that rainwater flows freely and doesn't cause leaks or water damage, protecting not just your roof but your home's foundation as well.
Summer: Wash Up and Protect from Heat
Summer heat can be harsh on your asphalt roofing, particularly if your shingles are exposed to intense sunlight for long periods. To protect your roof from UV damage, consider investing in reflective roofing coatings or a lighter-colored shingle to reduce heat absorption. While inspecting your roof for damage, check for any curling or cracking of shingles, which can happen as the asphalt roofing material becomes brittle in extreme heat.
Summer heat and humidity can also further promote algae growth, which can in turn reduce the integrity of asphalt roofing materials and impact their ability to reflect the sun's rays. Even if you didn't spot algae growth over the spring, it's worth doing another check later in the summer. A professional can soft wash your shingles with a biodegradable cleaning detergent to kill off algae and other organic material and protect your shingles from damage.
Fall: Prepare for Winter
As the weather cools and fall arrives, it's time to get your asphalt roofing ready for winter. One of the most important tasks is to remove fallen leaves and debris from your roof and gutters. Blocked gutters can cause water to back up, leading to ice dams and leaks. Schedule another gutter cleaning (ideally after a good bit of the foliage around your home has already fallen down), and make sure your gutters are securely attached.
Inspect your roof for any cracks or damage from the summer heat and make sure all shingles are secure. It's also a good time to check the flashing around chimneys and vents for gaps. If any gaps are found, you should have them sealed as soon as possible to prevent cold air and moisture from leaking into your home.
Winter: Keep An Eye Out For Trouble
During the winter, there's usually not much you can do in terms of active maintenance, so instead, you'll want to keep a close eye on it, especially after snowstorms or heavy rains. If you do happen to notice any signs of a leak or other damage to your roof, don't hesitate to contact a roofing professional for immediate assistance.
A little maintenance throughout the year can go a long way toward maximizing your roof's lifespan, but even the best roofs need a little outside help from time to time. If you need a reliable roofing company in Bowie that specializes in asphalt roofing, Riptide Remodeling is here to help. Call Riptide Remodeling today at 443-223-0619 to talk to our asphalt roofing professionals and request a free estimate for your roofing needs!
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