Replacing a roof is a relatively big undertaking - that’s why it’s so important to take care of it. 

You can save yourself from expensive repairs by conducting regular roof maintenance throughout the year. Any problems like broken shingles, leaks or mould should be resolved before they become bigger issues.

In this blog, we share some helpful tips to keep your roof in good condition.

Tip 1: Inspect your roof all year round

You might already know that it’s important to inspect your roof after a big storm, but did you know that you should inspect your roof every season? 

Here’s what you should look for at the end of each season:

Summer. Check for moss or algae growth or debris that could fester on the metal tiles. 

Autumn. Give your gutters a thorough clean and look out for holes in the roof.

Winter. Watch for icicles and ice dams which occur when ice rapidly freezes, melts and refreezes and can bend or break the gutters and even cause water damage inside your home. 

Spring. Check the gutters for water or ice damage, debris and nesting animals. Also keep an eye out for leaks and damaged flashing.

Check insulation regularly, especially if your roof is older. When you check your attic, also look for small holes, nesting animals and mould. They can be easier to spot from the inside.

Tip 2: Look for signs of damage 

Take a walk around the house. As you go, look for three things in particular: broken shingles, overhanging trees, and full gutters.

Missing shingles or broken pieces on the ground are a clear sign of a roof problem. It’s simple to replace the odd shingle but the risk is the exposure of the roof structure. Make sure you check your roof after storms and high winds and act quickly on any issues.

Keep an eye out for branches. Anything above or close to the roof needs to be trimmed back. Tree limbs are at risk of falling, while dropping leaves can rot your tiles. 

Finally, check your gutters for blockages. Water that accumulates in gutters can work into the roof. After the trees have finished shedding in the late fall, clean the gutters and downspouts.

Tip 3: Avoid getting on the roof yourself 

The roof must be safe to walk on, right? Wrong. If you’re not an experienced roofer, it’s best to stay off the roof. You could take a fall, or a wrong step and damage the roof.

There are legal requirements everyone must follow when working at height. When you hire a roofing contractor, they’ll inspect the site to identify the hazards and site requirements. Your quote should include the cost of these precautions, such as edge protection, scaffolding or secure harnessing, or detail the additional costs.

Roofs can be surprisingly fragile, no matter the material. A person’s weight can easily cause damage. If you must go on the roof, never walk on clear sheeting, ‘brittle roofing’ or skylights. Avoid expensive falls and do your inspections from the ground.

Tip 4: Be proactive: Book an annual roof inspection

Don’t wait for problems. By the time you notice them, they might be bigger (and more expensive) than you realize. Professional roofers know exactly what to look for, so book an annual roof inspection. They can give you recommendations and help you prioritise, if repairs, upgrades or maintenance are on the cards.

Remember that your roof is your home’s protection against the elements. Repairs need to be taken care of quickly to preserve the integrity of the roof. 

How’s your roof looking?

It’s important to inspect your roof throughout the year. Pinpointing issues early can save you a lot of money and keep your home watertight.

Avoid walking on the roof, as many products are fragile. Instead, inspect from the ground. Be proactive and also book an annual roof inspection. An expert’s eye can catch small problems before they become big ones.

A high-quality roof will protect you, even in extreme weather conditions. Get in touch to learn about our durable metal roofs.