Best Ways to Maintain a House Roof

Would you build a roof, put the shingles or metal roof on and then forget about it?  You want to keep your roof in the best possible shape for longer life.  Having to redo a roof is a costly repair and can be avoided with these tips to make your roof last as long as possible.
 
Remove Leaves
 
Have a home that has varying roof lines, or near tall trees?  Then you probably have leaves that collect in the valleys or the chimney area.  Not removing them will trap moisture and decompose over time.  This allows moisture to accumulate and has the possibility to create fertile ground for weeds to start.  Leaves should be removed each Fall.
 
Cleaning the Gutters
 
No one wants a clogged gutter; it only leads to other issues that no homeowner wants to deal with.  When leaves, twigs and other debris pile up in the gutters, water can wick into the roof sheathing and decay it.  Or even worse can seep into the roof rafters.  Being proactive and cleaning your gutters can save you thousands of dollars if damage was to occur.  Just a few hours out of the year is all it takes to maintain your gutters.
 
Don’t let moss grow
 
Take a drive around your town and you are sure to find a home where moss is growing on a roof.  Moss traps water.  Getting rid of it early will be an easier job.  Wait for a buildup and you may needs to buy some products to kill the moss first.  Catching the moss in the very early stages will save you money and prolong your roof.
 
Take care of the trees

We all like our privacy and a log home is fitting in a wooded setting.  However limbs and leaves that touch your roof can eventually damage it.  And if you are in an area with high winds, it can be worse.
 
Trim the branches so they are at least 10 feet away from your roof.  This will help keeping rodents away from your roof as well.  They can gnaw on your siding and roof.  While trimming the branches be careful not to hit the home.  If you are uncomfortable doing the job yourself, it would be time to call in a pro.
 
Don’t let winter get the best of your home
 
Winter can be a wonderful time of year, but with it can bring potential damage to your home if precautions are not taken.  Ice dams happen on many roofs and can lead to costly repairs.  It is best to remove some or all of the snow after storms.  Use a roof rake to take the snow off the roof within three feet from the eaves.  Be sure to never pry ice that has already formed, since that can damage the roof.

Always be looking 
 
Giving your roof a check every now and then is not a bad idea.  Look for any loose, curling or missing shingles.  Also pay attention to any damaged flashing, chimneys, or skylights.  If anything seems amiss, get your roof inspected sooner than later.  Putting it off can turn into a bigger fix and costs can escalate.

With the proper maintenance you can make your roof last longer and keep your hard earned money in your pocket.

Ready to take the step and build your log home?  View our floor plans and contact us today at 800-341-1566 or drop us an email. 

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