Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular type of roof in the United States, and for a good reason. They’re durable, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive. Whether you are considering a three-tab, dimensional, or luxury asphalt shingle roof, the key to extending the longevity of your roof is maintenance. Like all roofs, asphalt shingle roofs must be maintained to keep them looking their best and performing at their peak. Here are a few pro tips for extending your asphalt shingle roof’s life from Matute Roofing.
Inspect your roof regularly.
As with any roof, it’s crucial to inspect your asphalt shingle roof regularly for signs of damage or wear. It is always better to catch potential problems early on before they become more serious (and expensive). Asphalt shingle roofs should be checked for leaks at least once a year and more often if you live in an area with severe weather conditions. Look for missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or other problem areas. This is extremely important after severe storms and unpredictable storm damage.
If you find any problems, have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Hiring a professional to maintain your roof is also a great option. Matute Roofing offers 20 years of experience and can detect any issue during an inspection, but it is also vital that a homeowner do their part to detect visible damage. Contact us for a free estimate for maintenance in Wayne, NJ and its surrounding areas!
Keep your gutters clean.
Your gutters play an essential role in protecting your roof from water damage. Asphalt shingles are not immune from water damage. Make sure to clean them out regularly to prevent leaves and other debris from clogging them and causing water to back onto your roof. With nowhere to run, water can get between the singles and leave behind a leaky roof and soggy roof decking.
Trim trees near your home.
Overhanging tree branches can damage your asphalt shingles and cause leaks, so it’s important to keep them trimmed back. This is especially true during severe weather when falling branches could do some serious damage to your roof. Also, it must be mentioned that overhanging branches invite pests to cause trouble. Rodents, birds, and even insects utilize clogged gutters or damaged shingles as their own homes. The last thing you want is a pest infestation in your home!
Check for leaks regularly.
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging its lifespan. If you do find a leak, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your roof and home. Leaks can be seen in interior ceilings, and you may also notice some watermarks or discoloration in the paint colors. Sometimes a simple repair can be handled by a savvy homeowner and a quality silicone caulk, but most times, leaks are caused by lifted, missing, or damaged shingles. This replacement or repair should be completed by a fully licensed and insured roofing company like Matute Roofing, which is fully insured and licensed by The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance.
Be mindful of foot traffic.
Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand the elements, but they’re not meant to support much weight. That’s why avoiding walking on your roof whenever possible is important. Shoe treads can displace asphalt shingle granules, or they can also create soft divots, which can cause premature failure of the roof. Softening of the roof isn’t a big issue, but walking on the roof while they are hot increases the likelihood of damage. If you have large trees near your home, have a professional tree service trim them back for you, and do not utilize your roof to reach high branches. While overhanging branches can damage your shingles and lead to leaks, it is more likely that additional damage can be done.
Have your roof cleaned by a professional.
Asphalt shingle roofs should be cleaned by a professional every few years. This will help ensure that they stay in good condition and last many years. Cleaning your roof with effective and safe products removes any moss or algae that can result in an increased likelihood of roof damage. In the United States, moss tends to grow on northern-facing roof surfaces. This is because they receive less direct sunlight than those facing south. The damp surfaces are never thoroughly dry.
Contact a professional if you have any concerns.
If you notice any problems with your asphalt shingles, such as damaged or missing shingles, contact Matute Roofing to come and take a look. Matute Roofing will be able to repair or replace any damaged shingles and help prevent further damage to your roof. Don’t wait until the damage is severe. As one of the only GAF-certified contractors in the state, Matute Roofing prides itself on providing high-quality services. No project is too big or small for experts in all types of roofing. Matute Roofing can help you with any project, including storms or other unexpected occurrences. It would be best if you didn’t wait until the last minute to repair your roof when something you didn’t expect happened.
These simple pro tips will help you keep your asphalt shingle roof in good condition for many years. If you have any concerns, be sure to call a Matute Roofing for advice. If you require inspections, repairs, or other roofing services, please call us at 973-618-6489. You can also fill out our contact form or check us out on social media — Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
