How to Maintain Different Types of Roofing Material

Roofing maintenance is important for maximizing a roof's service life. Different types of roofing materials are maintained in different ways. Here are different roofing materials and how to maintain them for a longer life, as well as general tips to put your roof in a good spot to last a while.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are often among the easiest-to-maintain types of roofing material. Metal roofs are smooth so that leaves, pine needles and organic debris often roll off the roof into the gutters. Gutters for metal roofs need to be cleaned regularly because they can fill easily. Low-slope metal roofs may need to be cleaned periodically. Homeowners with a metal roof should have their roof inspected once every two years to ensure that the screws that hold the roof are tight and secure, and that the caulking is holding up properly.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are covered in rough granules that can create friction. Many roofing professionals agree that asphalt shingles are the most popular residential roofing material – they're inexpensive, abundant, and come in all kinds of different colours. Organic material that falls onto an asphalt shingled roof can become caught on the granules and then can accumulate in the valleys of the roof. This organic material can lead to staining and rot, and can contribute to the premature aging of the roof. The best way to avoid problems on an asphalt shingled roof is to clear the roof of organic debris on an annual basis using a roof rake.

Homeowners who have high roofs may need to contact a roofing company to get this done. On wet, shady properties, asphalt shingles can develop moss growth that must be removed annually. It's best to not use a power washer to remove moss from an asphalt roof as the high pressure will remove the granules and outer coating of the asphalt, along with the moss, damaging the roof and shortening its life.

Homeowners who want to avoid problems with their asphalt roof should inspect the roof periodically for curling shingles, granule loss, and missing shingles. Asphalt shingle roofs can last about twenty years, so homeowners should start having their roof inspected on an annual basis when the roof reaches from 10-15 years old.

Cedar Shake Roofs

Cedar shake roofs can last about 30 years with proper maintenance. Like asphalt shingle roofs, cedar shake roofs need to be cleaned off regularly to ensure that the shakes dry thoroughly between rainy days. Prolonged exposure to moisture can rot cedar shakes, leading to leaks. Cedar shakes can be cleaned periodically with a pressure washer to restore the amber colour of cedar shakes, though this should be done by a professional to avoid damaging the shingles.

Homeowners should never seal cedar shakes because this can cause moisture to become trapped in the shingles. As with asphalt shingles, cedar shakes are vulnerable to moss growth under certain conditions and must have the moss removed regularly in order to avoid rot. Finally, homeowners can treat their cedar shakes periodically with a preservative to prevent the shingles from rotting.

Many cities and developments, especially in the western United States, now do not permit cedar shake roofs due to fire dangers.

Clay Tile Roofs

Clay tile is highly durable and can last for decades with proper care. Clay tile also requires little maintenance to look its best. Homeowners who want to ensure a long service life for their clay tile roof can inspect their roof on a regular basis and have broken or missing tiles replaced immediately. It's important not to walk on the roof, because clay can crack under the weight of a person.

Synthetic Composite Shingles

Composite shingles can last in the range of 30-50 years and have the added bonus of creating a more eco-friendly home than other materials. Many manufacturers tout the material's fire resistance and impact ratings, and they can look just like natural roofs. While they may require extra attention in certain climates or regions—in wet areas, these roofs may be more susceptible to moss growth—some are specially built to resist algae or other issues. Because of their durability, composite shingles don't require much maintenance other than the standard roof care.

General Roof Care Tips

Proper roof maintenance begins with the surrounding trees and vegetation, regular cleaning of the gutters, and removing debris that may accumulate over time. To keep your roof in top condition, it's important to keep an eye out for any potential issues and address them quickly.

Keep Trees Trimmed

Keeping trees trimmed is a key part of overall roof care, no matter what type of roofing material you have.  Trimming trees away from your roof can help to:

• Prevent debris and branches from accumulating on your roof
• Reduce the chances of branches damaging your roof
• Keep squirrels and other pests from climbing onto your roof
• Minimize the chance of branches rubbing against your roof and causing scratches
• Help protect your roof from severe weather conditions

Be mindful of how close the trees are to your roof and trim them regularly. If you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself, hire a professional tree service to trim your trees for you.

Maintain Gutters

Regularly cleaning your gutters helps to prevent damage to the roof caused by the buildup of debris, such as leaves, twigs, and other materials. If your gutters are clogged, water can back up and create problems with the roof or the home's structure. To maintain your gutters, take the time to inspect them at least twice a year. Look for any blockages and remove them as soon as possible.

It's also a good idea to check the downspouts for clogs or debris. If any part of the gutter system needs repairs, do them as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Additionally, if your roof has snow guards, make sure they are in place and functioning properly during the winter months.

Keep an Eye Out For Issues

It is important to regularly inspect the roof for signs of damage or wear. This includes checking for any visible signs of leaks, damaged or missing shingles, and other issues that could lead to costly repairs in the future. If you're comfortable with it, get up on your roof and closely examine the entire surface, paying extra attention to areas near chimneys, skylights, and other openings.

Additionally, it is important to check the roof from the inside, especially in the attic, for any signs of water damage or even mould. If any of these issues are spotted, it is best to contact a professional roofer to assess the damage and offer repair recommendations.

Caring For Your Roof

Performing regular roof maintenance can prevent leaks and structural damage. While some roof maintenance can be performed by homeowners, other types of roof maintenance must be performed by a professional contractor. For more information about how you can take care of your roof, talk to a reputable roofer in your community. Working with a professional contractor can help ensure that your roof will last for a long time.