You bought a new home. Congrats! Now, about that roof….
For someone just purchasing a home for the first time, it can feel like there is an avalanche of new information to deal with. It isn’t possible to understand everything about your roof at once, let alone the whole house, but here are a few points to keep in mind about your roof as you prepare for a lifetime of homeownership.
1. You Need to Clean Your Gutters
This isn’t merely a cosmetic move. If you do not clear out your gutters, water can accumulate in the gutters or on the roof, which can lead to mold and roof decay. Full gutters are heavy gutters as well, and they can tear away from the side of your house if they remain clogged and overstuffed. Overflowing gutters can also lead to foundation issues as the water spills out and seeps down along the base of your home’s exterior, which is exactly where you were trying to guide the water away from.
2. You Want to Avoid Mold
If leaves, algae, or moss start to collect on your roof, then water is starting to collect there too. And if standing water remains on your roof, it can begin to cause your roof to rot. Rotting shingles can cause leaks and can result in moisture pooling in your attic. Mold will only grow in areas that are already wet (and are consistently wet) so if you see mold or moss growing on your roof, you should have a professional come out to take a look at it right away.
3. You Need Occasional Inspections
This is a preventive measure, like visiting your doctor for regular checkups. Having a professional take a thorough look to make sure everything is okay will prevent headaches down the road, and can help you deal with small problems before they become bigger. An inspection often does not take very long, does not cost much, and does not involve much from you at all. But knowing the current condition of your roof, and having a professional’s eye on the state of the shingles and the drainage, will help you to have peace of mind and to plan ahead for upcoming challenges.
4. You Will Eventually Need to Replace Your Roof
Most roof constructions are built to last roughly 20 years. Given the wear and tear your roof sustains, this is actually an impressive amount of time for the materials to endure. Be aware that roof replacement will have to happen at some point, and budget accordingly.
Congratulations on your new home! Enjoy it, and don’t hesitate to ask your trusted local roofing company if you have any questions or concerns.