Way Up on the Roof

Many homeowners choose to install asphalt shingle roofs due to the fact that it is an affordable roofing material and it is also known for being durable and long lasting. If you have invested money to have an asphalt shingle roof installed over the past few years, you most likely want your roof to last for as long as possible, since the price to replace a roof can be expensive. Luckily, with proper maintenance and care, it is not overly difficult to get as much life out of your asphalt shingles as possible. Use the following tips to extend the lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof:

Don't Forget to Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

One of the keys to keeping your asphalt shingle roof in good condition and preventing major problems is hiring a residential roofing contractor to inspect your roof on a regular basis. While you can do a basic visual inspection from the ground, you need an experienced roofer to get up on your roof to check for missing or damaged shingles, as well as other problems that may need to be repaired. When you have your roof inspected according to schedule, you can count on issues being identified early. Keeping up with minor repairs that may be needed can help ensure that your asphalt shingle roof does not fail prematurely.

Keep Gutters Clean

Your gutter system may seem very basic, but it actually plays a big part in keeping your roof from developing problems. When you have an asphalt shingle roof, the last thing that you want is rain water or melting snow to pool on the roof,since excessive moisture can damage asphalt shingles and eventually lead to roof leaks. Thus, keeping your gutters cleaned and completely free of debris is essential in order to ensure that all water is promptly diverted away from your roof.

Make Sure Trees are Trimmed Back From the Perimeter of the Roof

Trees look beautiful in a yard, but if you want your asphalt shingle roof to last for as long as possible, you need to be diligent about keeping trees trimmed back away from your roof. Branches, tree limbs, or twigs rubbing against your shingles can cause a lot of damage, and if a branch or limb were to break and fall on your roof during a severe storm, the damage could be very costly to repair. If you have large tees located near your roofline, the safest option is to hire a professional to trim them.

For more tips, contact a residential roofing contractor in your area.