With summer temperatures in California reaching over 100 degrees, your roof will be taking a beating. Without proper maintenance and care, your roof can suffer the effects of the heat leading to costly repairs. In this article, we provide 5 roofing care tips to help keep your roof in optimal condition to ensure your home maintains its durability, protection, and character.
1. Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Check for Lesions
It’s important to inspect your roof at least twice a year – once during the summer and once during the winter. Be sure to look out for any lesions such as splits, punctures, and cracks that could indicate damage. Also, check for any signs of mold, decay, and other moisture-related problems that may need to be addressed. Regular inspections of your roof will help you identify any problems early and ensure your roof can receive the care and attention it needs when necessary.
Schedule for Professional Inspections
In addition to regular inspections, it’s also important to have your roof professionally inspected once a year. You may want to consider scheduling a professional inspection during the summer months so that any potential problems can be addressed before the winter continues. A professional inspection will give you an detailed report of the condition of your roof and enable you to make informed decisions on repairs and maintenance.
2. Clear Debris and Overhanging Branches
Remove Debris Regularly
Accumulation of debris on your roof can not only lead to health and safety risks, but can also contribute to moss and algae growth, shortening the lifespan of your roof. Make sure to remove debris such as leaves and pine needles at least bi-annually, especially during the summer months.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Overhanging tree branches that provide shade during the summer can often be the source of debris accumulation, mold growth, and punctures. In addition to removing debris, it’s also important to keep nearby trees trimmed of overhanging branches to ensure your roof is well-protected.
3. Clean the Roof
Spray with Water
During the summer months, the sun’s intense rays can dry out your roof’s shingles, causing them to become less effective. To help keep your roof healthy, regularly spray it down with a garden hose spout combined with a brush attachment. Spraying your roof with a steady stream of water will help reduce the risk of cracking and breakage.
Treat with Cold Cleaners
In addition to spraying down your roof with water, you can also treat your roof with cold cleaners such as baking soda, muriatic acid, and bleach. Just be sure to spot test any products you use and check with your local building code to ensure your roof is protected from any potentially damaging solutions.
4. Repair Your Roof
Fix Minor Issues Immediately
It’s important to keep on top of any minor repairs that you notice on your roof. Damage from the summer can develop faster than usual, so if you spot any minor issues such as splits, punctures, and cracks, you should address them as soon as possible to avoid further potential damage.
Replace Damaged Shingles
If there is a visible break in your roof’s shingles, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. Damaged shingles not only compromise the roof’s ability to keep out moisture, they can also lead to structural damage. Be sure to hire a professional roofer to assess the damage and carry out the repairs safely.
5. Use Roof Coatings
Apply a Cool Roof Coating
In order to keep your roof at a manageable temperature throughout the summer, consider applying a cool roof coating. These special coatings reflect the sun’s rays away from the roof and can minimize the amount of heat that is transferred from the roof to the rest of the building – helping to reduce cooling costs.
Reapply Spray Insulation Every 5 Years
In addition to applying a cool coating, you may wish to consider applying a spray insulation every 5 years to help reduce any heat that is transferred from the roof to the building. An insulation spray will create an airtight seal on the roof and will help keep the building cool throughout the summer.
People Also Ask
Q: How often should I inspect my roof?
A: It’s important to inspect your roof at least twice a year – once during the summer and once during the winter. Additionally, you should have your roof professionally inspected at least once a year.
Q: How often should I clean my roof?
A: You should clean your roof at least bi-annually to reduce the accumulation of debris that can lead to mold and algae growth. Make sure to regularly spray your roof with a garden hose spout and treat it with cold cleaners such as baking soda and bleach.
Q: How do I fix minor roof issues?
A: It’s important to immediately address any minor issues on your roof that you notice such as splits, punctures, and cracks. If there is a visible break in your roof’s shingles, it’s important to hire a professional roofer to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Final Words
Properly caring for your roof during the hot summer months in California is something that should not be neglected. By following our 5 roofing care tips, you can ensure your roof is well-protected, reducing the risk of costly repairs and maintenance down the road.