In Oklahoma, where nearly 70% of homes have shingle roofs, proper maintenance isn’t just a good idea, it’s a necessity. Your roof does more than just keep the rain out, it helps keep your home safe and look good.
If you’ve never thought about your roof before, don’t worry, because we are here to help. Whether you just bought your house or you’ve been living there for years, this guide will help you understand how to take care of your shingle roof. We’ll show you the easy ways you can keep your roof in good shape and provide you with tips that will not only help your roof last longer but also save you money on big repairs.
Inspect Your Roof Regularly
One of the easiest things you can do to maintain your shingle roof is to inspect it regularly. This doesn’t mean you need to climb up a ladder every weekend, but you should aim to inspect it at least twice a year, usually once in the spring, and once in the fall. It’s also a good idea to inspect your roof after any severe weather event, like a storm or during high winds, to make sure there isn’t any serious damage.
When inspecting your roof, here are a few things to look out for:
Missing shingles: Sometimes, shingles can get blown off during a storm, and missing shingles can expose the underlayment, leading to leaks.
Cracked, curled, or buckling shingles: These are all signs of excessive wear and tear, and damaged shingles need to be repaired or replaced before they cause more problems.
Granule loss: Shingles are covered in protective granules, and over time, these can start to wear away. If you notice granules in your gutters or bare spots on the shingles, this is a sign they might be nearing the end of their lifespan.
Moss or algae growth: While moss and algae might not seem like a big deal, they can trap moisture and damage the shingles if left unchecked.
Why Should You Hire A Professional For A Roof Inspection?
While it may seem that all there is to a roof inspection is a simple visual overview, that is not always the case. If they’re done right, regular inspections can catch problems early, before they require expensive repairs. This makes professional roofing contractors valuable, since they have the necessary experience and know what to look out for.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters might not seem directly related to your shingles, but they actually play a huge role in your roof’s health. When gutters get clogged with leaves, twigs, and other forms of debris, water can back up and overflow onto your roof. This excess water can cause shingles to warp or deteriorate over time.
To prevent this, make sure to clean your gutters at least once a year. You can use a gutter scoop or a small trowel to remove debris and then flush the gutters with water to ensure they’re draining properly.
Also Read: Guide To Gutter Styles and Types
Trim Overhanging Branches
A crucial part of asphalt shingle roof maintenance is managing the surroundings of your home. If you have trees with branches that hang over your roof, it’s important to keep them trimmed. Overhanging branches can scrape against your shingles during windy weather, causing them to wear down faster. Plus, leaves and debris from the branches can fall directly onto your roof and get into the gutters, causing clogs.
Remove Moss and Algae
Moss and algae growth might give your home a bit of that “rustic charm,” but it’s not a good look for the longevity of your roof.
Moss tends to hold moisture against the shingles, which can cause them to rot over time. Similarly, algae can cause dark streaks that aren’t necessarily harmful, but make your roof look dirty.
If you have installed algae-resistant shingles on your roof, then most likely, your roof will stay free from their effect. However, if you don’t have this type of shingle, you can remove moss and algae using a specially formulated cleaner or a mixture of water and bleach (a 50/50 ratio works well). Just be sure to avoid pressure washing your roof, as the high pressure can strip the protective granules from your shingles and cause more harm than good.
Don’t Let A Roof Leak Become Worse
If you notice any signs of a leak, whether it’s a water stain on your ceiling, damp spots in your attic, or dripping water, it’s crucial to address it right away. Leaks often start small, but can quickly grow into much bigger problems if left unresolved. For instance, water can seep under your shingles and damage the wood decking below, leading to rot and mold.
The good news is that many leaks are caused by minor issues like missing or damaged shingles, which can be relatively easy to fix. However, you’ll still want a professional to handle the repairs in order to ensure they last.
Keep An Eye On The Flashing
Flashing is the metal material used around roof penetrations like chimneys, skylights, and vents to keep water out. Over time, flashing can become loose or corroded, creating an entry point for water. During your roof inspections, don’t forget to check the flashing and make sure it’s in good shape.
If you notice any gaps or rust spots, it’s best to repair or replace the flashing to prevent leaks.
Check Attic Ventilation
Shingle roof maintenance is not just limited to your roof’s exterior or roofing material. Your attic ventilation might not seem like it has much to do with your shingles, but it’s actually a key factor in maintaining them. Proper ventilation allows heat and moisture to escape from your attic, which can prevent the shingles from becoming too hot and drying out, or moisture from causing mold and rot.
If your attic is poorly ventilated, you might notice that your shingles are curling or that your roof gets excessively hot in the summer. Adding or improving your attic ventilation can help prolong the life of your shingles and roofing system overall.
What About Maintaining Other Types Of Roofing Systems?
In this article, we covered the topic of shingle roof maintenance as this is the most commonly used roofing material in the state of Oklahoma. However, maintenance practices vary with the type of roof you have. If you have different roofing materials, check out our following articles.
- For Commercial Roofs: Essential Tips For Commercial Roof Maintenance
- For Metal Roofs: Your Guide To Metal Roof Maintenance
Want To Effectively Maintain Your Shingle Roof?
With proper shingle roof maintenance, your roof can last as long, or even exceed the shingle’s average life expectancy. Maintenance also goes a long way in helping with the insurance companies and roofing contractors.
If your roof is showing signs of damage and you would like a professional to look at it, reach out to the team of A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing. We are a premier team of roofing contractors serving Tulsa and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167 to learn more about how we can help you!
