Roofing Maintenance Tips

While there's a certain amount of home roof maintenance that most homeowners can perform themselves, many roofing maintenance tasks are best left up to experienced, licensed professionals. DIY roofers may have less experience managing the dangers of climbing tall ladders and walking around on roofs, and roofing repair specialists may also be more readily able to spot signs of trouble.

Step one is an inspection, which should ideally be performed twice annually in the spring and fall. Look for shingles that are missing, broken, warped or are losing their protective coatings. You should also inspect your roof for signs of rust, moss, lichen and other vegetation.

How to Clean Your Roof

There are multiple ways to remove moss, which can degrade roofing materials. It can be:

  • Manually removed with a long-handled broom or scrub brush
  • Blasted off with a power washer – though this can damage asphalt shingles, leading to more roofing repairs
  • Eradicated with a chemical treatment, but be sure to choose one designed specifically for roofs; some harsh chemicals can damage roofing materials, as well.

Most homes have vent pipes emerging from the roof, and these are usually protected by rubber covers called boots. Over time, the rubber can weaken and crack, making replacement necessary.

You can also detect the need for roof maintenance from inside your home. If you see leaks, mold or dark spots on the ceiling, it's time for a thorough roof inspection. Warped or peeling paint near the roof line on the exterior of your home is another sign that you may need to repair roof materials to fix a leak. Taking care of these problems promptly is key to minimizing damage and expense.

It's also wise to check for roof damage in the aftermath of a major thunderstorm or hailstorm. If you opt for a professional inspection after severe weather, do your research to find a roofing company you can trust. It's common for fly-by-night roofers to market their services aggressively in areas that have experienced major storms, and they're often not around to stand by their work if problems arise later.

HWA Has You Covered

A home warranty from HWA protects your budget and your peace of mind against the unexpected expenses of inevitable home repairs. Whether you're buying, selling, or already in your home, we have a plan to fit your needs!

View Plans