4 Simple Steps to Lower Roof Repair Costs
Many homeowners abide by the old adage “out of sight, out of mind” when it comes to roof care. Even though it’s integral to the structure of the house, it’s easy to forget about the roof because it’s not as immediately visible as the yard or kitchen. You wouldn’t let the dishes stack up in the sink or the grass out front grow waist-high, so why would you let moss take over your roof like it’s the one paying the mortgage?! Environmental factors, including vegetation and weather, can seriously impact your roof’s function. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your roof in tip-top shape as it ages.
1. Keep trees cut back.
Nearby vegetation, such as trees overhanging the roof, can lead to debris and shade, which also promotes moss-growth. Keep trees cut back from the roof to prevent buildup, and remove the moss periodically.
2. Avoid pressure-washing.
Already have some moss buildup? Avoid pressure-washing, which can strip the granular surface off of asphalt shingles and shorten roof lifespan. These granules protect the shingles from UV damage and ensure fire resistance. Ask your local hardware store for cleaning products and procedures, or consult a licensed roofer if the moss and debris is moderate to severe.

3. Watch for water damage.
Weather also influences the strength and durability of your roof. Rainfall will naturally loosen the shingle granules over time, which is not normally a concern, unless granules begin to accumulate in the gutters or downspouts. This indicates excessive granule loss: it may be time to budget for a roof replacement. Also, if rainwater pools on the roof, including due to installation factors noted in the previous post, the increased moisture can lead to cupping, splitting, or cracking shingles. Damaged shingles should be repaired or replaced to prolong the roof’s lifespan.
4. And more severe storm damage!
Severe weather conditions, like wind and hail, can lead to more serious roof damage. Wind can lift or even blow off shingles altogether — watch for this and replace shingles when feasible. Also, guarantee that fasteners are placed and functioning properly. On asphalt shingle roofs, these fasteners are typically galvanized steel nails that penetrate the shingles, the underlayment (the felt layer under the shingles) and through the roofing deck (the base layer).
In environments prone to hailstorms, monitor shingles for hail damage, which often looks like spatters, indentations, cracks in the shingle surfaces, and/or exposed underlayment. Spatters are marks from hailstones that are partially melted when they hit the roof, and are less severe than indentations, but can still remove granules. Indentations are more intense, and can lead to cracks and leaks when extensive. After a hailstorm, check for damage and repair accordingly.

Though vegetation and weather conditions might not be your as-phalt (badum-tshh), you can still stay ahead of repair costs by addressing maintenance issues in a timely way. Keep your roof moss, debris, and damage-free to ensure the strength and security of your home.

