The repairs and bills seemingly never stop when you are a homeowner. The roof often burdens a significant part of these costs. Every year, millions of homeowners change their roofs, but the big disasters resulting from roof neglect or unlucky accidents are avoidable through regular maintenance. Here are four tips every roofing company wishes you knew to avoid big disasters.

Prune Overhanging Branches

Tree branches can create a severe problem for your roof. The most evident concern is that they can fall on your roof during a storm. Be proactive when it comes to your landscaping and cutting off any overhanging branches that can pose potential damage to your property. Leaves and twigs that fall on your roof can retain moisture longer than average, leading to mold growth. Clear all debris from the roof with a rake.

Clean the Gutters

Closed gutters will make water slipping beneath the roof structure easier. Cleaning out gutters is essential for maintaining the strength of your shingles and the stability of your roof. They allow water to flow from the roof to the ground, keeping the roof structure dry. Neglecting gutter cleaning will prevent water from flowing and keeping it on the roof, resulting in leaks and damage.

Check for leaks

Finding water leak signs in the attic and ceiling is a severe concern. Inspect the extent of water damage by looking for the following warning signs:

• Musty odors
  
• Water signs
  
• Bulging areas on interior walls

Broken tiles allow moisture to gather and nurture growth, such as mold, algae, and moss. It deteriorates boards and supports underneath. To avoid these issues, identify the cause of the moisture, fix any broken tiles, and remove any existing growth.

Get Regular Roof Inspections

According to Realty Times, a standard roof that is maintained and appropriately installed using first-rate materials lasts 20-30 years. Yet, some roofs, such as shake-style shingle roofs, can last longer than 50 years. To ensure your roof lasts its lifespan, check for any damaged shingles and signs of wear and tear. If it's significant, contact your local roofing company to replace them. Additionally, arrange for your contractor to check the roof. They can spot roof problems you might have missed and offer you further maintenance tips.

By staying on top of routine maintenance, you can extend your roof's lifetime significantly. Cleaning gutters and removing branches and debris on the top before they begin to retain moisture and provide a conducive environment for mold growth will also be beneficial for your roof. Reach out to us at Ameristar Roofing & Restoration for further roof maintenance tips or services.