A roof is one of the most important features of any home but is very easy to overlook until something goes wrong. A sudden leak inside the home is a sure sign that you need the help of local roofers to fix a problem with your rooftop. According to Home Advisor, a properly installed roof should last between 25 and 30 years. Here are five tips to help make your roof last longer.

1. Inspect the Roofing Structure

Call a roofing company to enter your attic a few times a year to take a close look at the roof from the inside. If the roof is insulated, they will look for signs of sagging, wet, or water-stained insulation. If there is no insulation, they will look for water-stained plywood and signs of rot, mold, or mildew that suggest water is getting through the shingles. Be sure to contact a professional before you start anything.

2. Clean and Fix the Gutters

Gutters help move water away from the rooftop and your home. When the gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris, they are less efficient and might become clogged. Call a professional roofer to start removing any obstructions and fixing gutters that are damaged or in disrepair. This will help move water away swiftly and prevent damage to the roof. Always contact a professional roofer for help before you start!

3. Remove Overhanging Branches

A heavy limb or even an entire tree might fall onto your rooftop and require repairs done by roofers. Keeping a close eye on any branches and trees that are near your house will help you identify potential threats to the roof.

4. Don’t Power Wash Shingles

A power washer is great for removing dirt, bird droppings, and other contamination from the walls, soffits, and eaves. That same power washer is potentially damaging when used to clean shingles. A power washer easily could tear shingles loose and force water into the support structure so make sure to avoid it!

5. Check the Ventilation

A well-ventilated attic can help keep the rooftop dry and in good shape. Sometimes, people have bathroom vents installed and make other changes that negatively affect the ventilation in the attic. Make sure the attic has good ventilation since it will help the roof last longer.

When in doubt, be sure to call a professional roofer for help! You can call or visit us to hire our quality roofers at Jacob's Ladder Construction & Roofing LLC. We'll provide a free estimate for work on your home.