Your roof is one of the most important structures in your home – and often the most neglected. Many homeowners don’t realize the importance of properly maintaining their roof until it’s too late. Ignoring the problem altogether or opting for the DIY route can cause significant damage and expensive repairs. Let’s look at ten things you should never do to your roof:
1. Disregard overhanging branches or trees. Trees can drop leaves, branches and other debris that can damage your roof. In addition, the shade created can make your roof hotter, leading to premature wear and tear. Have overhanging branches or trees near your roof trimmed or removed.
2. Turn your roof into a hangout. Walking around or sitting on your roof can damage the shingles and flashing. It's also dangerous, especially if you're not wearing the proper safety gear.
3. Clean your roof aggressively. Power washing or using harsh chemicals can damage the shingles and remove the granules that protect them from the elements. This can make your roof more susceptible to leaks and decrease its lifespan. Hire a professional roof cleaner.
4. Ignore leaks. Even a small leak can cause a lot of damage over time. If you see a leak, have it repaired immediately.
5. Pull up shingles. If you have a loose or damaged shingle, don't pull it up. This can damage the adjoining shingles and make the problem worse. Call a roofer to repair the shingle properly.
6. Make a gutter garden. Gutters are designed to divert water away from your roof. If you fill them with plants, they won't be able to do their job and water can back up and damage your roof.
7. Disregard signs of mold and/or mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments causing a number of issues including water damage, deterioration of roofing materials, even health problems. Hire a professional mold remediation company to deal with it.
8. Install skylights, vents or other roofing products without professional help. These products require professional installation to ensure they function properly.
9. Hide leaks with tarps or other temporary fixes. Temporary fixes can be a Band-Aid solution, but they won't solve the underlying problem. If you have a leak or broken shingles, don't just patch it up. Get it fixed properly by a professional roofer.
10. Hire an unlicensed or uninsured roofer. They may do it cheaper but may not do it right. Always hire a licensed and insured roofer.
Why risk costly mistakes? If you need a new roof or repairs to your existing roof, call Watertight Roofing Services at 813-971-5404 for a free consultation.