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Asphalt Shingles Roof Maintenance

If you’ve got a roof made of asphalt shingles roof maintenance is probably not at the top of your list of priorities. However, asphalt shingles do get damaged and worn down by debris and weather, and all roofs need to be inspected from time to time.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the basics of checking up on and, if necessary, conducting small-scale repairs to your asphalt shingle roof.

The first thing you’ll want to do in any asphalt shingles roof maintenance job is to clear your roof of debris. This consists of leaves, trash, excessive dirt or dust, and anything else that might get in the way or soak up water and quicken damage to your roof. Asphalt roofs take extra damage from water deterioration, and should be cleared of debris as often as is feasible.

If your roof is collecting moss or algae, it should also be cleared by installing zinc or lead control strips. Flashings should be checked for damage and holes, and replaced if necessary. If there are loose shingle tabs, a dab or so of roofing cement on either side of the tab should fasten it. If there are damaged shingles, they should be replaced.

Asphalt shingles roof maintenance also generally consists of checking gutters for debris and clearing them out, and then testing downspouts by pouring water into them. Any trees that have branches hanging over the roof should be trimmed back to minimize debris, and the open valley metal should be checked for rust and any rust cleaned off with a wire brush, then primed and painted.

Caulking and sealants should be checked for cracking or other damage, and replaced if they are. Mortar on chimneys and parapets should be checked for weather damage as well, although repairing a chimney may be a job for a professional mason.

Keeping in mind these basic steps for asphalt shingles roof maintenance will help you keep your home free of leaks and your roof looking nice and functioning well. The best way to catch roof damage is while it’s still on your roof, before it gets into your home and causes more severe problems like leaking or indoor mold growth.

Roof maintenance might seem like something to be left to professionals, but anyone can check and maintain their roof with a little bit of know-how and a little bit of elbow grease. Visit our website to find local contractors and more information about roofing.

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