TAMKO BUILDING PRODUCTS 

4 Steps to a Healthy Shingle Roof

Though all roofs will age and eventually need replacing, you can delay the inevitable by performing routine maintenance to keep your roof in the best possible shape. A well-maintained roof will increase your home value, save money on energy costs and roof repairs, and provide safer, more comfortable living conditions. Here are four steps for keeping your roof healthy:

1. Remove overhanging tree branches

Cut down any obstructive tree branches that could potentially cause damage to your roof. Overhanging branches can rub on the shingles and wear them down. A heavy gust of wind or storm can cause a weak or broken branch can fall on your roof. Additionally, falling debris, including leaves and pine needles, can accumulate on the roof and clog your gutters. Overhanging branches also offer a passageway for squirrels and other critters to climb onto the roof.

2. Keep your roof clean

The weight of snow, fallen tree branches, leaves, and debris that accumulates on your roof overtime exerts extra weight, which can cause your roof to sag, warp and rot. Keeping your tree branches trim can help prevent debris from falling on your roof, as well as the growth of moss and lichen. Use a roof rake to remove any debris that may have accumulated. During the winter, use your roof rake to remove packed snow to avoid extra weight and prevent ice dams from forming.

3. Clean the gutters

Cleaning the gutters is an important part of roof maintenance. The gutters and downspouts divert water off the roof's surface and away from your house's foundation. Inspect your gutters regularly and remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated. A clogged roof won't drain properly and can cause roof leaks and foundation damage.

4. Get professional inspections and repair issues immediately

The experts at TAMKO Building Products advise homeowners get their roofs inspected twice a year, as well as after a major storm event. Regular roof inspections are very important, as they bring any issues to your attention. Have any problems, whether it be a loose shingle, deteriorated sealant, or corroded flashing, repaired right away to avoid a larger, more expensive issue.