How to Efficiently Maintain Your Home’s Roof and Get the Best Out of it
Determining the type of roof your home has.
Determining the type of roof your home has is important because it will determine what you need to do for maintenance. If you have asphalt shingles or tiles made from metal sheets on your roof, then this means that there are many small pieces of material in a row that can be replaced as needed when they become too worn out (you may also want to replace these if the color fades away). For concrete tile roofs and clay/concrete tile roofs with a thick layer of mortar plaster on top, the best way to maintain them is by keeping any moss growth at bay so that these materials don’t deteriorate prematurely.
The roofing material will determine the best type of maintenance necessary to keep your roof looking and functioning its best. When it comes to materials, there are four main options: asphalt shingles or tiles made from metal sheets, concrete tile roofs, clay/concrete tile roofs with a thick layer of mortar plaster on top (these last two types can also be called “terracotta”), and slate or stone that is either natural or manufactured.
Here are the different types of roofs and how you should maintain them.
Asphalt Shingles
For asphalt shingles or tiles, for example, one way to maintain them would be by simply cleaning off any debris that has accumulated after storms like fallen leaves. You could alternatively use an organic product such as vinegar mixed with water in order to wash away mildew and other fungi.
Slate or Stone Roofs
Slate or stone roofs should be cleaned off with a mixture of water and detergent in order to remove debris, tree sap, algae, etc… This type of roofing material can also be coated using organic products such as linseed oil for the first coat followed by an additional layer of paint that is designed for use on slate or stone roofing.
Clay Roofs
For clay roofs, you may want to consider laying down a thick layer of asphalt shingles or tiles in order to protect the surface from damage that might be caused by heavy rains and other elements.
Metal Roof
When it comes to maintaining your metal roof, one way would be by using an organic product such as linseed oil with boiled water for cleaning purposes. You could alternatively use bleach mixed with water if needed (although this is not recommended). This type of roofing material can also be coated using organic products such as paint designed for use on metal roofing materials.
Wood shake
Wood shake or cedar siding should simply have the debris removed after storms like fallen leaves so they do not accumulate too much over time;
Consult with Professionals
Roof maintenance is important in keeping your home safe and sound. If you don’t know where to start, find a roofing contractor that can help evaluate the condition of your roof and recommend options for improvements or upkeep. It may be worth it to spend on an inspection before springtime rolls around so any issues are addressed and minor repairs are made.
