According to the latest available data from the BLS, 96 professional roofers died in the course of their duties during 2019.
Bearing that statistic in mind, it’s easy to see why it’s a bad idea to attempt major roof repairs yourself. Although professional roof repairs are expensive, it’s never a good idea to try and save costs with a DIY attempt.
Fortunately, there are things you can do about roof maintenance to keep your roof in good shape for longer. Keep reading to find out how.
Roof Maintenance Basics
Most roofs can last for 20 years or more if they’re well maintained.
So, if you want to avoid roof problems in your near future, there are a few things you can do to ensure your roof stays in good condition for as long as possible.
Keep Your Gutters in Good Condition
Gutters protect your roof from accumulating water and debris. Check your gutters for sticks, leaves, and other debris regularly and clear away these offending materials before they cause a blockage.
If you have trees near your home, you should do this at least once every three months. Alternatively, twice a year should suffice.
Trim Your Trees
Trees that hang over your roof can drop leaves, pods, and even branches that may cause damage over time. Trim tree branches so they don’t project over your roof and make sure you remove any dead branches from trees nearby.
These damaged limbs can easily fly off in a storm and land on your roof, causing extensive damage.
Keep Tabs on Your Shingles
Use a pair of binoculars to check the condition of your roof from a safe distance. Moss or lichen growing on your roof looks unsightly and can also cause extensive damage to your shingles.
If you notice any of this unwanted greenery, get a licensed contractor to clean your roof and apply the appropriate treatment.
Know When it’s Time to Call the Roof Repair Pros
Unless you experience a violent storm, you won’t wake up one morning and need a roof replacement. There are a few telltale signs you should start searching for ‘roofing near me‘ or ‘local roofing companies’ soon.
Here’s what to look out for:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Rusting metal
- ‘Gritty’ gutters from shedding shingles
In these cases, you’ll almost certainly need to replace your roof soon. Only an expert contractor can decide whether it’s worth repairing a roof that’s in bad condition.
So, call up a few local roofing services and ask for quotes.
Make sure they visit your property before providing an estimate of costs. Also, take things like warranties and the quality of the materials used when you’re comparing quotes. The cheapest price isn’t always the best – or the worst.
Save Money on Home Repairs
If you’re wary of attempting roof maintenance by yourself, you can also hire a professional roofing service to take care of this aspect for you. That way, you know your roof’s always receiving the best care without any risk or time commitment on your part.
Would you like to find out more easy ways to keep your home in the best shape possible?
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