Roofs are a big investment, and with prices constantly increasing, it’s more important than ever to take care of what you already have. Not only can these tips save you money, but they can also prevent unnecessary waste, as most asphalt shingles end up in landfills. Let’s dive in!
1. Check for Blow-offs and Flapping Shingles
Asphalt shingles aren’t waterproof, they’re designed to shed water. If your shingles aren’t properly sealed, strong winds can cause them to flap or even blow off. This is a big problem because once one shingle is missing, it exposes the area underneath to water damage, which can lead to expensive repairs.
If you spot any loose or flapping shingles, grab some roof tar or silicone-based roof cement. These products are inexpensive—around $10 to $20 for a few tubes—and can save you from bigger headaches later. Reseal those shingles before they fly off!
2. Monitor Your Attic’s Temperature
In the summer, high attic temperatures can “bake” your roof, causing the shingles and underlying materials to deteriorate faster. A quick and affordable solution is to check the temperature in your attic using a simple gauge that costs about $10 to $20 from Amazon or your local hardware store.
If the temperature is too high, make sure your attic has proper ventilation. This could mean cleaning out any blocked vents or installing additional ones, like solar-powered vents, which are energy-efficient. Proper ventilation is key to keeping your roof cool and extending its life.
3. Inspect Roof Penetrations
Roof penetrations are anything that passes through your roof—chimneys, vents, gas lines, or pipes. These areas age faster than the shingles because they are often sealed with rubber, which tends to dry out and crack over time.
Inspect these areas regularly, and if you notice any cracks or damage, fix them immediately. A new piece of chimney flashing or a rubber seal can cost as little as $10 to $20 but can save you thousands in the long run by preventing leaks.
4. Clean Your Roof and Consider Rejuvenation Products
Over time, algae, moss, and other debris can build up on your roof, making it look unsightly and potentially damaging the shingles. While cleaning is important, avoid using a pressure washer as it can damage the shingles and void your roof’s warranty.
Instead, use products specifically designed to clean roofs. Rejuvenation products like GoNano can restore flexibility to your aging shingles, potentially extending your roof’s life by five to ten years. These treatments are much cheaper than replacing your roof and can make a huge difference in keeping it in good shape.
5. Stay on Top of Maintenance
The best way to avoid costly roof repairs is through regular maintenance. As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye on your roof. By following these tips—checking for loose shingles, monitoring attic temperature, inspecting penetrations, and cleaning your roof—you can extend the life of your roof and save a lot of money.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your roof doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little effort and regular checks, you can avoid major repairs and extend your roof’s lifespan by years. Got any roof maintenance tips of your own? Share them in the comments below!
Thanks for reading, and remember—prevention is always cheaper than repair.