Your new roof is a major purchase. Therefore, you want it to last as long as possible. Many people scoff at the idea of spending money on roof upkeep, citing it is an unnecessary expense, but the truth is that improper care of a roof can shorten its lifespan dramatically, and end up costing more money in the long run. It goes without saying that giving your roof some TLC every now and then is less expensive than replacing your roof altogether.

Do right by your roof and follow these tips for how to maintain your new roof:

Clear your old or new roof of debris.

This is especially important if you have large trees hanging over your home. A buildup of dead leaves and acorns on your roof is more than just an eyesore; it the perfect opportunity for a natural dam to form. A dam means water, and water means leaking. Do yourself a huge favor before it’s too late by taking a broom or a blower and carefully removing the debris from your roof.

Repair or replace shingles.

It is not unusual for shingles to become warped and curl up. When it is hot out, the shingles are relatively malleable and should be easy to bend back into shape. If the weather is colder, you may need to apply heat with a blow dryer in order to soften the shingles and reshape them. Either way, curled shingles present opportunities for water leakage, so tackle them as soon as you see them. Shingles may become loose or damaged after rough weather, or even due to normal wear and tear. It is important that you replace loose or damaged shingles as soon as you notice them – again, the idea is to avoid leakage. If you are unsure of how to correctly repair your roof, be sure to contact Lyons Roofing and we’ll be happy to provide a free estimate on your repairs.

Clean your roof periodically.

Fortunately for you, this is a job that you can put off for every one to three years. However, it is a necessity if you want to keep your new roof looking new, and free of dirt and mildew. Simply purchase a roof cleaner from any home improvement store, spray the cleaner onto the roof using an insecticide sprayer or pressure washer (set at the lowest pressure setting possible), let the cleaner soak according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and then rinse.

Keep your gutters clear. One way to prevent debris buildup and to ensure proper water drainage from your rooftop is to clean out your gutters regularly. Simply take a blower to the foliage, and then use a water hose to rinse the rest out. You may also want to consider gutter toppers to keep most debris out and avoid the dangers of getting up on your roof to clean those gutters. Learn more about gutter toppers.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the best roof for your home. Experienced professionals can help you make that important decision, and can also bring your vision to life. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Lyons Roofing. We can be reached by phone, in Indiana at 812-294-3595 and in Kentucky at 502-689-0338. You can also request a free roofing estimate online.

As much as we love the summer sun in kentuckiana, it can cause problems for our roofing, just as all extreme weather can. Extreme cold, storms, rain, and of course extreme heat from the sun, can cause some very severe damage to our home or business roofing system. By taking some preventative measures and hiring professional roofing contractors, you and your roof will stand the best chance you can against the sizzling summer heat.

Commercial Roofs and Extreme Heat 

It is common for the sun’s heat to cause cracks, bumps, and other signs of damage to your roofs surface. Commercial roofs tend to be more durable than shingled roofs; the sun still takes its toll on even the toughest of materials.

Often time’s roof damage can go unnoticed, until you have a rainy day and start seeing leaks in the roof. Leaks can cause all kinds of unheard of damages to your home or business. This is where preventative maintenance comes into play. Having regularly scheduled roof inspections can help prevent the cause and effects of having heat damage on your roof.

With an inspection, you will be made aware of trouble spots and can take a proactive approach to addressing the situation before it becomes a bigger problem.


Shingled Roofs and Extreme Heat

Damage to a shingled roof is more noticeable than damage to commercial roofing. It is seen in the form of shingle curling, discoloration, and cracks on the shingles themselves. The same thing is experienced with leaks getting into people’s homes, causing property damage and displacement from this type of roofing damage from extreme heat.

Good ventilation in your attic is a way in which you can help prevent the heat from building up inside of your home. This heat would cause pressure and warp the wood that the roof is made of. Having the underside of the roof properly ventilated will allow the heat to move through the attic, and not get trapped inside. Having damaged shingles is one thing, but having a damaged roof deck is a different ballgame when it comes to having to make repairs.

What to do?

As said by a fellow Denver roofing contractor: “You may not be able to keep the sun from shining on your roof and keeping it cool, but you will be able to take some smaller steps in order to help prevent leaks and other serious issues that can come from heat damage. Having a regular roofing inspection and making sure that your attic has good ventilation are going to be some of the best ways in which you can avoid future disasters and costly repairs.”

If you think you have damage from the sun, or extreme weather call your local roofing contractor and have your home or business inspected. Make your roof last as long as you can, we know it is not an expense you want to have that often.