Asphalt shingles are an inexpensive and versatile roofing solution. However, they’re more susceptible to damage and have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials.
The good news is that extending your roof’s lifespan is easy with proper maintenance and care. You can significantly extend its lifespan by keeping your roof clear of debris, cleaning your gutters regularly, and having a professional inspect your home’s roof.
Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Inspect your roof regularly if you want it to last as long as possible. This means getting up on a ladder to look around and having a professional roofing contractor complete the inspection. They will be able to spot damage that you may not have noticed from the ground.
It’s also important to clean your gutters regularly. When they get full of debris, it creates a dam that prevents water from draining off your roof. This can lead to shingle damage and leaks in your home.
It would help if you also trimmed any trees near your roofline. Overhanging branches can scratch or fall on your asphalt shingles during a storm.
Clean Your Gutters
Asphalt shingles aren’t indestructible, and they need to be cared for to get the longest possible lifespan. One way to do that is to have a professional clean your gutters regularly.
This prevents clogging and keeps water flowing freely, which helps extend the lifespan of your shingle roof.
Also, professionally cleaning your gutters twice a year is a good idea. This removes dirt, debris, and other contaminants and prevents fungus and other issues.
Keeping your trees trimmed is also important. Branches that hang over your home can puncture the shingles and also be the source of clogged gutters, which can’t drain properly. The shingles become more damaged as they try to carry the water away from the house.
Repair Any Damage Right Away
Asphalt shingle roofs are designed to protect your home from rain, hail, wind, sun and other extreme weather conditions. However, the lifespan of your shingles depends on several factors.
One factor is the type of shingle you choose. 3-tab shingles have the shortest lifespan, while architectural and premium shingles are built for longer durability.
Another factor is the amount of airflow in your attic. Having proper ventilation in your attic keeps moisture from building up, which can damage shingles and shorten their lifespan.
Lastly, call asphalt shingle roofers for repairs if you notice any signs of roof leaks or other problems. If you do, the issue may worsen, resulting in more expensive repair bills. Remodeling Concepts can identify and repair any damage to your shingles, which will help extend their lifespan.
Trim Trees Back From Your Roofline
Depending on where you live, your roof might be exposed to extreme weather that affects its lifespan. Rainstorms can damage shingles and cause them to break apart, while hail can puncture or dislodge them entirely. Even natural elements like moss growth can shorten the lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof.
You should trim your property regularly if large trees surround it. Not only does this help to keep your home safe, but it can also extend the life of your roof. Branches that hang over your roof can cause damage during storms and puncture shingles, and they can contribute to clogged gutters by dropping leaves, twigs, fruit, and other debris onto your shingle roof. Trees should be 10 feet from your home to avoid damaging the structure.
Apply Protective Coatings
A roof coating on your asphalt shingle roof can protect it from leaks and other damage. You can apply a roof coating with a sprayer. You must clean your roof, stir the contents in the can, and apply the coat evenly with a pump sprayer.
It would help if you kept your attic well-ventilated. This will help your home and roof breathe better, extending the lifespan of your asphalt shingles.
You should trim large trees surrounding your house if they are too close to your roofline. The branches can fall onto your roof and cause damage. Plus, leaves and small twigs can get into your gutters and block the water flow.
