The average lifespan of a residential roof made with traditional materials like asphalt shingles or wood shake is 20 to 30 years. While this does not take extreme weather or other external factors into account, it is still a good estimate for most homeowners.
Extreme conditions notwithstanding, there are many things that you can do as a homeowner to either shorten or extend the lifespan of your residential roof. Today, the All Area Roofing team is sharing five very simple ways that you can extend the lifespan of your residential roof. Read all about how to do it below!
5 Simple Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Residential Roof
Schedule regular inspections
Just like yearly physicals are key to keeping your body healthy and detecting problems before they become major, annual (or even bi-annual with our wacky Florida weather) roofing inspections are vital to keeping your roof in great condition. Regular inspections can help detect problems early, allowing you to take action before they become so big that a replacement is your only option.
Keep Up with Routine Maintenance
Staying on top of routine maintenance can go a very long way in extending the lifespan of your residential roof. Homeowners are often unaware that seemingly harmless things such as clogged gutters, moss growth, or debris on their roof can lead to serious damage if left untreated. Hiring a professional to take care of these problems is quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive, so don’t be afraid to call in a pro if you notice any of these issues.
Acting Quickly on Repair Needs
Roof repairs don’t always come cheap, but acting on repairs as soon as they are detected is always going to be less expensive than waiting until the damage is even worse and you are now in need of major work or even total replacement. Listen to your local residential roof professional if they say you need to make repairs and act on them as quickly as possible to save you even more trouble and money in the long run.
Don’t Forget the Attic
Your attic is a major part of your roofing system, but it can sometimes be neglected. Factors such as improper ventilation and/or insulation, wood rot, mold or mildew growth, and hidden leaks can all impact the longevity of your roof. Be sure to include your attic in inspections too!
Trim Nearby Trees
Tree branches that have grown so long they extend over your residential roof may look nice, but they can also cause major damage to your roof if left alone. Storms, critters, and wood rot can all cause the overhanging branch to snap and fall on your roof, puncturing your shingles as it lands. Trimming tree limbs before they become a problem is an extremely easy way to protect your property.
Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make over the course of your life. Protect your investment by treating your roof and the rest of your property with extreme care. If you are in the central Florida area and in need of a bit of help protecting your roof, the All Area Roofing team is here to help. Call our team today to schedule your free inspection before the holidays!