Well constructed roofs are built to last. When the job is done properly, the work should stand up to the effects of time. That said, even the best work suffers wear and tear, weathering from the elements. All roofs will face the need for repairs eventually, but there are things you can do in the interim to protect your investment, and get the most out of your roof.
Here are a few simple things to consider to help the longevity of the roof on your home or business. Most commercial roofs are flat and can be constructed from a variety of materials including metal, plastic, foam, and more. Before you start the process of weatherproofing your roof for longer life, you have to know what specifically you’re working to protect. What’s your roof made from? What weatherproofing capabilities does it already inherently have? Understanding your roof’s strengths and weaknesses will better equip you to care for it long-term.
Another thing to consider is geography. Where is your building located, and what kinds of weather does your area generally experience? If you are near us in the Southeast, you likely experience changing seasons, intense heat and humidity in the summer months, periods of extensive rain, and sometimes freezing temperatures and ice. To properly protect your roof, you have to take all these elements into consideration.
Some easy DIY tips for safeguarding your roof from the elements are using roof tar to repair any obvious bends or curls for shingled roofs, keeping your roof clear of any debris, pressure washing your roof yearly to eliminate elements that can seep in causing long-term damage, and repairing leaks immediately to avoid having them grow into more severe issues.
You can also be proactive by keeping nearby trees and vegetation trimmed back and away from your building or home’s roof. Wet leaves can get stuck to the surfaces of the roof trapping moisture under them, which can cause damage over time. Tree branches, large or small, can also scratch your roofing materials, compromising their durability. Taking steps toward proper ventilation will reduce the effects of humidity and mold, and insulating against extreme heat will help with energy efficiency as well. All of these things work together to prolong the life of your roof.
If you live in an area with varying weather patterns like we have here in Chattanooga, Tennessee, you’ll have to take all that into consideration as it pertains to the life of your roof. Though this is fairly straightforward information, sometimes the intricacies of roofing projects are best understood with the help of professionals. And that’s where we come in! Here at Tennessee Roofing and Construction, we are versed in commercial and residential roofing, industrial roofing, and general contracting work. We would love to help you with your next project or help to ensure you take the best steps to care for your building or home for the long haul.
