Your home’s roof serves as one of its first and most important lines of protection. A damaged roof can cause leaking in attics and crawl spaces, wood rot to the structure of the house, and even problems with the foundation. This is why regular inspection and maintenance is so important. Here are some steps to help you protect your roof and to let you know when it is necessary to call an asphalt roofing company in Burlington to provide repair or replacement.

Know Your Roof’s Age

To start with, you can maintain your roof much better if you know its age and history. When you buy a property, have an inspector take a look at the roof to give you an estimate as to its age and state of repair. A typical asphalt roof can last between 20 and 30 years before needing replacement. That means that if you buy a property where the roof was installed 20 years ago, you might need to prepare for a new roof quicker than you would normally expect. By comparison, if the roof is relatively new, then you have an estimate as to how long it can last without needing major repair. Know the age of your roof and bear in mind that extreme storms, such as ice storms or hurricanes, can cause wear that might require repair earlier than anticipated.

Clear Debris Regularly

Over time, leaves, branches, and other debris can pile up on a roof. If left on their own, they can get under asphalt shingles and pull them up, or damage them in another way. The risk of damage becomes greater if you have tall trees near your roof, as that also invites squirrels and other animals on top of your home. To help minimize the risk of damage to your roof, it helps to clear it of debris every few months or at least once a year. This process involves not only removing branches and leaves, but also cleaning out your eavestrough. Note that if your roof has a steep pitch, it is best to have a professional do any cleaning that requires you to actually climb onto it. A professional has training and safety equipment that can minimize the risk of accidents or harm.

Inspect the Roof

A visual inspection of your roof can let you know if any shingles have come loose or been damaged. If your roof is in relatively good repair, you probably don’t need to climb on top of the house to make your inspection. Instead, you can use binoculars to inspect the roof from afar, noting any areas where shingles appear to be upturned or out of place. You can also perform an inspection from the other side of the roof, in your attic or crawlspace. Look for water damage to the ceiling or floor where moisture might have leaked in from above. Make a special check around any chimney, where weakened flashing might allow water in. If you spot any damage during this inspection, it’s time to call a roof repair professional.

Hire a Professional

Even if your roof seems to be in excellent shape, it helps to get a professional opinion on the matter. Have an experienced roofer take a look at your home every three to five years, or more frequently if you notice the accumulation of damage. The roofer can notify you as to whether any immediate repairs need to be made, where the potential trouble spots lie so you can keep an eye on them, and how much longer your roof is likely to last before it needs a full replacement. If repairs are needed, get a quote and compare to other roofers in your area to see if you can get a good deal. When you gather quotes, however, don’t automatically assume a lower number is the best deal. Pay attention to what each roofer offers in terms of experience, parts, and service so you can make sure you get the best quality repair possible.

By paying close attention to damage, threats, and changes to your roof, you protect your home as a whole. Spotting problems before they become major allows you to save significant amounts of money on roof repair, as a smaller issue is easier and less cost-intensive to fix than a larger one. If you know your roof’s history, remain aware of problems, and prepare for replacement when the time comes, you have a better chance of avoiding any sort of long-term structural damage to your home.