Roof Maintenance 101: How to Extend the Life of Your Shingles

As roofers, we know a thing or two about shingles. You can say it is somewhat of a passion of ours, which is why our team has put together this brief guide on roof maintenance and why it is crucial to extend the life of your shingles. Let’s dive in.

How Do You Extend the Life of Roof Shingles?

Roof Maintenance 101: How to Extend the Life of Your Shingles with Pride Roofing LLC. Aerial view of shingled roof of red brick home

Maintenance is vital when it comes to ensuring your roof lasts for decades versus needing replacement after just a few years. You can prevent damage and keep repair or replacement costs to a minimum by considering a few things.

Avoid Power Washing Your Roof

Many homeowners believe that power washing is an excellent way to remove moss growth, dirt, or debris. The truth is, it could be doing more harm than good. Often, a pressure washer is too strong, which causes the granules on the shingles to come off, potentially voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. Instead, use a soft broom or call a professional cleaning team to do the job.

Clean Your Gutters

When your gutters are full of leaves and other items, there’s no place for rainwater to go after a storm. Instead, it leaks into the decking that holds your shingles to your roof. Water damage of this nature can significantly deteriorate the shingles. This could potentially keep your roof from lasting as long as possible. And, while nobody likes this chore, it is one of those things you have to check off your honey-do list to save you those pesky roof repairs in the future.

Check Your Home’s Ventilation

Another tip? Check out your home’s ventilation. If you have a poor setup where condensation is gathering in the attic, you could be damaging your roof. The result is less durability for the long haul, meaning you’ll need a replacement in just a few years instead of ten or twenty. Of course, if this is something you don’t feel comfortable checking on your own, a licensed contractor would be happy to help.

Keep Branches Trimmed Away from Your Home

Finally, make sure you’re working to keep any branches or vegetation trimmed away from your roof. Not only does this make a difference during one of our infamous summer storms, but it can also cause friction or debris that damages your shingles. If necessary, have a professional arborist visit at least once a year to do a thorough pruning around your roofline.

Your Trusted Louisiana Roofing Company

Pride Roofing LLC is proud to be your trusted roofing contractor serving Tangipahoa and St. Tammany Parishes, plus the Sulphur and Gulfport areas. If you feel your roof needs attention, please contact us to schedule an appointment. Otherwise, we hope you and your family have a wonderful Mardi Gras season! And remember, a job well done is a job done with Pride!