A home’s roof is an important part of its curb appeal, and is something that will quickly catch a homebuyer’s attention when assessing your home. Because they are also relatively costly to replace, roofs tends to attract a very critical eye. You can protect the investment you’ve made in your roof, prolong its life and help ease buyers’ concerns by performing regular maintenance.
First, be sure to clean your gutters twice a year – in the fall and spring. Clogged gutters can lead to a multitude of problems, including damaged paint on siding, a wet basement and even major roof damage. If your gutters are full of leaves, water is forced upward where it can be absorbed by, and even rot, roof sheathing and rafters.
In addition to the gutters, you should also remove leaves from roof valleys and from around chimneys. Leaves that are left on top of the roof will trap moisture and decompose, allowing moisture to build up on the roof and possibly lead to weed growth. There are many ways to remove leaves, including a roof rake, blower or hose. Just take care not to use a pressure washer which can force water under the shingles.
You should also have overhanging branches trimmed regularly so they are 10 feet away from the roof. Not only will this help keep leaves and moss off your roof, but it will also help protect your roof from damage from branches blowing in the wind, as well as from squirrels and other rodents who can no longer gain access to your roof from the trees.
Above all, be constantly checking the roof for curling, loose or missing shingles, especially after a storm. If anything appears to be wrong, call a roofer as soon as possible to limit damage.
Wallingford PA Real Estate – Wallingford, PA 19086
