Maintenance Tips To Extend The Lifespan Of Your Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Posted on: 13 May 2021

Many homeowners prefer asphalt to other roofing materials due to its durability, curb appeal, and affordability. Asphalt shingles require less maintenance than metal, slate, and concrete. However, this doesn't mean that you should neglect your roof. Without proper care, an asphalt roof won't last as long as it should. Therefore, here are a few maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your asphalt shingle roof.

Clean Your Roof Regularly

The buildup of debris and organic matter on your shingles can present problems for your roof. If the debris traps moisture, it can encourage the growth of moss and algae on the surface. These substances degrade your shingles and cause premature wear and tear. Regularly clean your roof, gutters, and downspouts to get rid of dirt and debris. Below are some dos and don'ts for cleaning your roof.

Use gentle cleaning products

While harsh products are great for getting rid of stains, mold, and mildew, they can ruin your asphalt roof. Harsh cleaners can strip the protective coating on your shingles and expose the shingles to solar radiation. Some chemicals can also accelerate corrosion on metal gutters and metal fittings such as screws, nails, and caps. Use gentle cleaning products to protect the structure.

Do not pressure wash your roof

Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning technique that blasts pressurized water on surfaces to remove dirt and stains. A pressure washer can simplify roof cleaning tasks and yield impressive results. However, the high pressure of the water can dislodge the protective granules on your asphalt roof and undermine its energy efficiency. Therefore, adopt low-pressure cleaning techniques when washing your roof.

Avoid DIY cleaning

Asphalt roof cleaning is not a do-it-yourself task. Roof surfaces get slippery when wet, and they can increase the risk of slip and falls. Also, failure to exercise care when walking on the roof can lead to shingle damage. Therefore, hire a roofer for professional roof cleaning to avoid accidents and protect your shingles from damage.

Inspect the Roof Annually

Schedule at least one roof inspection every year to examine the condition of the structure. Inspect your roof before winter and summer to unearth minor problems that could get aggravated by the harsh weather during the two seasons. Also, inspect the roof after severe weather to check its condition. During the inspection, look out for missing or cracked shingles, corroded metal parts, and missing or worn flashing. 

Asphalt roof maintenance is a crucial step in prolonging the lifespan of your roof. Keep maintenance records to monitor minor roofing issues, so you can fix them before they get out of hand. Contact an asphalt shingle roofing contractor to learn more.

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