A lot goes into owning a home. From repairs and upkeep to maintenance and renovations, there are countless factors to consider. One of the most important is the health of your roof. The roof over your head is arguably the most important part of your home, and it needs to be maintained to ensure it’s properly protecting your home. If you’re a first-time homeowner, these responsibilities may be a little overwhelming, but don’t worry! The experts at Shanco Companies can help. Learn all about proper roof maintenance below!

Get your roof inspected

Roof inspections are critical to maintaining your roof and ensuring it lives up to its potential lifespan. Experts suggest that roofs be inspected twice a year to catch any problems before they become worse. This can be done by you or by a roofing company. To inspect your roof yourself, all you need is a ladder and a pair of binoculars. There are several things to look for, including:

  • Loose, missing or damaged shingles
  • Mold
  • Sagging areas
  • Loose gutters
  • Other aesthetic flaws

Clean your roof

When you’re doing your spring cleaning, don’t forget your roof! Making sure that your roof is clean and free of debris is critical in maintaining its health. Every season can leave a lasting impact on your roof with pounds of leaves, fallen branches or feet of snow. If you’re confident, you can climb a ladder and clean it yourself, but be careful! Roofs are much taller than most people think, and a fall can be nasty. Wait for a clear day, and make sure your roof is dry before climbing up to clean. 

Keep your gutters clean

Full gutters are a major cause of leaks and other roof damage, so making sure they are clean and clear is important. Clogged gutters can also start pulling away from your roof, giving water a clear path to run down into your foundation. Before the spring rains come, be sure to give them a good cleaning so you don’t have to worry. 

Be wary of moss, mold, and algae

Moss, mold, and mildew can be particularly damaging to your roof. Letting these fester in your shingles will shorten the lifespan of your roof, and allow water to collect. If you notice any moss growing on your shingles, it’s important to get rid of it immediately. However, be careful about how you do! Power washers and stiff-bristled brushes can also damage your shingles. Find an effective cleaning solution for moss, and make sure it’s dead before sweeping it off your roof. Fortunately, if you’re not comfortable with this process, an expert roofing company like Shanco can do it for you!

Check your attic

One of the best indicators of roof health is your attic. If your roof is leaking or has damage, you can often see it from inside. Look around for any indicators of leaks, mildew, or any other signs of damage. If you have small holes in your roof, there might even be light coming through. This should be done at least as often as your roof is inspected. 

At Shanco Companies, our roofing experts can help you take care of your roof no matter what. If you’re a new homeowner struggling to keep up with the necessary roof maintenance, we can make it easier. We offer free inspections to determine your roof’s health, and repairs to take care of any issues. Whether you need roof repair, or a full replacement, the Gaithersburg Roofing experts at Shanco can help.