As a homeowner, you want a roof that lasts for decades. Unfortunately, some tasks around the house can be big mistakes that may actually lead to roof damage.

1. Skipping Gutter Maintenance

You should never ignore your gutters. Ideally, leaves and debris will be cleaned out seasonally, or at least in spring and fall. Otherwise, the gutters can become blocked. This leads to water flowing back onto the roof, where it may cause damage to the eaves or even make its way beneath the shingles. This, in turn, can lead to water leaking into the home. Gutters may not be part of the roofing membrane, but they are an important part of the entire roof system so they must be maintained. 

2. Walking on the Roof

There really is no reason why a homeowner should regularly get up on their roof. Walking on shingles compresses them, which can lead to cracks, tears, and granule loss. It can also weaken the underlying roof decking and support structures. To avoid this, use an extension ladder to hang up things like holiday lights or to inspect the roof, instead of climbing up on the roof to do the task. This will prolong the life of your roof and it is also safer for you. 

3. Nailing in the Eaves

It can be tempting to put nails into wooden eaves to make it easier to hang items like holiday lights or decorative rain chains. Unfortunately, these nail holes allow moisture to get into the wooden eaves. This increases the chances of problems like wood rot. Eaves are an important component of the roof, and when they rot moisture is able to seep into the roof where it can cause damage to the underside of the decking. It can also potentially decrease the lifespan of the shingles along the drip edge. Instead, use clips and hangers that are designed to fit around the eaves as opposed to piercing into them.

4. Ignoring Overhanging Trees 

Pruning any trees that overhang a roof is an important part of ongoing roof maintenance. Trees can drop large branches in a storm, or the branches may blow and scrape against the shingles — both issues that can lead to major roof damage. Leaves and other debris dropped from a tree can collect on the roof surface, trapping moisture or aiding in the growth of mold and moss. However, pruned trees lead to a longer-lasting roof. 

Contact a residential roofing company such as Burwell Construction inc if you have questions about roof maintenance and repairs.

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