Often when you contact a roofing contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan, it is to repair something that has gone wrong or to replace your roof. In either case, chances are your roof is leaking and causing damage to your home. But you can do things to prevent needing to hire a roofing contractor to repair damage to your roof. Instead, you should consider performing some of the maintenance routines contractors recommend to keep your roof strong and in good condition. Here are a few to help you get started.
Roofing Contractor Advice on Maintaining Your Roof in Ann Arbor Michigan
While it may seem like you need to go on the roof and do some of these actions, it is not advised. Roofing is extremely dangerous work, even for those properly qualified with the proper safety equipment. You can be seriously injured or killed by falling from the roof. So it’s best left to the professionals. Not only that but you may also damage areas of the roof simply by walking on them. Hiring a qualified roofer is always recommended but there may be other things you can do to help maintain your roof such as the following:
Keep Nearby Trees Trimmed
If your roof on your home is close to any trees it is important to keep them trimmed back away from your home. This is especially true for branches that overhang the roofing surface. With strong winds, storms and aging trees, you can end up with roof damage from falling branches. Leaves can also blow onto your roof and into your gutters, causing more problems down the road. By keeping trees trimmed, it makes it more difficult for them to cause trouble for your roof.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters are responsible for draining water off your roof and away from your home’s foundation. But when gutters become blocked, the water can no longer drain and will end up overflowing. This can cause water to sit on your roof and flashings, making it easier for moisture to get into your home. You should clean your gutters at least once a month, but more during the fall and winter when there are more commonly obstructions.
Remove Debris
If you live in an area where there are trees around your home, you know that leaves can find their way onto your roof, especially during fall. While a few leaves may not seem like a big deal, even one can hold moisture and keep it for prolonged periods on your roof. The longer the leaves stay on your roof, the more time for the moisture to wear away on your roof. This wearing down can eventually lead to leaks and even more damage to your home. You should check your roof for leaves and remove them when you see them.
Don’t Let Snow Sit
Snow sitting on your roof can provide constant exposure to moisture, as well as a large amount of weight for long periods of time. The longer you let snow sit on your roof, the more time it has to impact your roof and wear away at it. You should always rake off snow as soon as it builds up so you don’t leave it to do damage.
Remember the Important Details About Your Roofing and Roofing Components
Some homeowners neglect to install certain features like fascia boards, drip edges, and flashings around chimneys, skylights, and in the valleys of your roof. Skipping over any of these can mean allowing a place for moisture to get in. this is especially crucial for areas where there is a seam, rather than a solid part of the roof, because it is already at a higher risk for moisture damage. Increased moisture can lead to problems such as mold growth and premature roof aging.
Get A Professional Inspection
While there are plenty of things you can do on your own to help protect your roof, you also need to have a professional inspection done at least every three years. This will help to make sure everything is working as it should and that there isn’t any damage occurring under your radar. Be sure to call A2 Roofing in Ann Arbor Michigan at 734-548-9915 to schedule your roof inspection. They also provide free estimates and financing if there are roof repairs needed or if you need a new roof installed.
