What Should Be on Your New Year Roof Maintenance Checklist?
Have You Checked Everything on Your New Year Roof Maintenance Checklist?
Happy New Year! This is the time when most of us start making lists of things we want to fix or improve around the house. You might be thinking about painting a room or finally cleaning out the garage. But there is one part of your home that usually gets ignored until something goes wrong: the roof.
Your roof is up there working 24/7. It deals with rain, wind, and the hot sun so you don’t have to. The problem is that small issues can hide up there for a long time. If you don’t catch them early, they can turn into expensive repairs that ruin your budget. The good news is that checking your roof doesn’t have to be a big chore. Here is a simple list to help you get things in order for the year ahead.
Why Care About Your Roof Right Now?
- Save Money: It is much cheaper to fix one loose shingle now than it is to fix a giant water stain on your ceiling later.
- Make it Last: A roof that gets a little bit of love every year will last much longer than one that is ignored.
- Lower Power Bills: If your roof is in bad shape, your heater or AC might have to work harder to keep you comfortable. Keeping it in good repair helps keep your bills down.
- Stay Safe: You want to know that your roof can handle a big storm without any surprises.
- Better Curb Appeal: A clean, well-maintained roof just makes the whole house look better.
Your New Year Roof Maintenance Checklist
1. Clean Out the Gutters
Gutters have a simple job. They move water away from your house. But when they get stuffed with leaves and dirt, the water has nowhere to go. It can back up under your shingles or spill over and ruin your siding. It might not be a fun job, but scooping out that gunk is the best way to prevent leaks.
2. Cut Back Tree Branches
If you have trees hanging over your house, they could be doing damage. Wind can make branches scrape against your roof like sandpaper, which wears down the shingles. Also, branches can snap during a storm and fall right through the roof. It is a good idea to trim them back so they aren’t touching or hovering too close.
3. Get Rid of Moss and Algae
If you see green patches or dark streaks on your roof, that is usually moss or algae. Moss is like a sponge that holds water against your roof, which can rot the materials over time. Algae looks like ugly black stains. If you see this starting to grow, it is best to clean it off gently before it spreads.
4. Look for Dips or Sagging
Go out into your yard and take a good look at your roof from a distance. The lines of the roof should be straight. If you see any spots that look like they are dipping or sagging, that is a sign of a bigger problem. It could mean there is water damage underneath or the support beams are getting weak.
5. Check for Damaged Shingles
Your shingles are the first line of defense. Take a walk around your house and look for any that are cracked, curling up, or totally missing. Even one missing shingle can let water inside. Fixing a few shingles is an easy task that prevents a massive headache later.
6. Watch Out for Ice Buildup
If you live somewhere cold, keep an eye out for ice dams. These happen when snow melts and then freezes again at the edge of the roof. This creates a block of ice that traps water behind it. That trapped water can leak into your attic. If you see big chunks of ice building up, you might need to check your insulation.
7. Make Sure Downspouts Point Away
Check where the water goes when it leaves your gutters. Downspouts should carry water a few feet away from your house. If they are blocked or pointing toward the roof, the extra water will cause rot. Make sure they are clear and doing their job.
Start Your Year the Right Way
Taking care of your roof doesn’t have to be stressful. Just spending an hour or two checking these items can save you from a lot of trouble down the road. Your roof protects everything you own, so it makes sense to give it a little attention once in a while.
If you don’t feel comfortable getting on a ladder or if you just want a professional to take a look, Twin Peaks Roofing & Construction is here to help. We can do a quick check-up to make sure your home stays dry and safe all year long.