From Shingles to Rubber

Good maintenance is an important part of keeping all the facets of your home working for many, many years. Your roof is no exception. 

But while most of the maintenance of the roof is done by professionals, what can a homeowner do to keep it clean and in good shape? Here are a few dos and don'ts for any homeowner. 

Don't Climb If Untrained

Should you climb up onto the roof to do maintenance? The answer depends on you and the roof's structure. You should only attempt this if you have training in the proper safety procedures for roof work. Never do it in any sort of wind or wet weather conditions. And never take risks with especially tall roofs or roofs with sharp angles. 

If you're not comfortable climbing on the roof, don't push yourself to do so. Contact your roofing contractor for regular maintenance checks instead.

Do Clean the Gutters

One of the best roof-cleaning tasks for a homeowner to put their energy into is actually gutter cleaning. 

Gutters may not be a direct part of the roof, but they contribute to its health in many ways. Clogged gutters lead to moisture getting underneath the eaves and shingles. They contribute to ice dams and they cause debris to build up where it can damage shingles or decking. 

Clean out your gutters at least twice per year, inspecting them after major weather events as well. Make sure they're undamaged, not pulling away from the roof, and that downspouts are clear. 

Don't Power Wash the Roof

If you have access to the roof, your roofing contractor may recommend using a hose to spray off dust and debris or remove mold. But more is not necessarily better, so don't opt for power washing unless you're directed to by a professional roofer. 

Power washing can break or lift shingles. It's particularly dangerous for asphalt shingles, as it causes the granules to break free and expose the shingle even further. 

Do Tidy the Overhead Area

Look upward and assess what's going on above the roof. Even if you don't get on the roof itself, you can keep it cleaner by keeping the trees overhead cleaner. Fallen branches, limbs, and trees themselves are some of the biggest risks for roofs. 

Where to Learn More

Want more tips for keeping your roof clean? Start by consulting with a roofing contractor in your region today. They'll help you prepare to do what you can and know who to call for the tougher projects.