A typical American home has an asphalt shingle roofing system. Asphalt shingle roofs are a great option because they’re available for a reasonable price, there are many reputable manufacturers that offer them in different iterations, and they look great. They also last a fairly long time, about 20 years or more.
That said, any asphalt shingle roof – or just about any type of roof, for that matter – can still fail sooner than its expected lifespan. That is, if you commit these mistakes.
Neglecting Your Roof
It’s easy to forget about your roof as soon as it’s installed – until a leak begins. No matter how good the reputation of your roof’s manufacturer is, if you don’t maintain their product, it’s not going to last very long. It’s a good idea to sign up for a regular maintenance schedule with your professional roofing contractors so they can spot and correct potential problems before they turn into expensive damage.
Not Cleaning the Gutters
Most homeowners don’t like cleaning their gutters, not that gutter cleaning is the most exciting thing. It’s tedious and time-consuming, and it isn’t devoid of risks. But keeping your gutters clean is crucial for the health of your entire roofing system. Clogged gutters and downspouts can result in water damage.
If you don’t like cleaning your own gutters, you can call a professional to remove all that gunk. But a better way is to install the best rain gutter system covers you can find on the market. This keeps the debris out so you can prevent gutter and roof damage and also avoid having to get up there and clean your gutters.
Letting the Foliage Have Its Way
If you have overhanging trees, those branches and leaves can scratch your roof, removing the protective granules or the shingles themselves. The branches and leaves that fall off the trees will end up on your roof and in your gutters, causing clogs and overflowing, which is bad news for your roofing system. The overhanging trees can also give your roof some shade in several areas, giving moss an opportunity to grow. Pay a professional to trim the trees if you don’t want any of that to happen to your roof.
To take care of your roof, call your roofing contractors, and ask for advice. You can also talk to them about regular inspections. To install the best rain gutter system cover, get in touch with Gutter Helmet® Piedmont. We can install your gutter covers for longer lasting gutters and downspouts, and for the benefit of your entire roofing system. Call us today at (844) 204-1015, or submit this form to get started on your project in Charlotte, NC.
