Roof maintenance should never be overlooked, regardless of the type of roof you have. Whether it’s asphalt or metal, all roofs require regular cleaning and minor maintenance to keep them in tip-top condition. Performing regular maintenance can also extend your roof’s life, as you can uncover potentially serious problems before they cause further damage.

7 roof maintenance tasks to extend the life of your tiles

1. Gutter and drain cleaning

Gutters and drains are part of your house’s defence system. They’re responsible for catching the water that pours down your roof and guiding it away from your building’s foundations.

The problem is that they gather leaves, debris, sticks, and other objects. If not removed periodically, they start to decompose, get heavier, and create clogs. Over time, leaves and debris create the perfect environment for mould and, in the case of metal roofs, that often means stains and paint damage.

You should check gutters and drains several times a year and clean them when necessary. They’ll need special attention in October and November when large quantities of leaves end up on roofs.

2. Algae and moss removal

Algae and moss on your house aren’t necessarily a sign that you need a new roof. They change the appearance of the tiles but, if removed in time, long-lasting damage doesn’t usually occur. That’s why it’s recommended that you address the issue as soon as possible.

Deep clean the tiles using the right tools and substances, depending on the type of roof. Metal roof systems, for example, require different cleaning methods from asphalt shingles, so make sure you read the instructions before using any cleaning solutions.

If moss and algae have spread over large surfaces of your roof, you may need to get professional help to eliminate them.

3. Visual inspection from the ground

In Spring and Autumn, you should carry out a visual inspection of your roof as part of your maintenance routine. Look for missing or lifted shingles, any chimney cracks, exposed fasteners, broken gutters, or debris. You can complete this checkup with an inspection of the attic. Here, you should look for stains, traces of mould, or rust on metal pipes. All of these can be a sign of water seeping inside.

If you notice any irregularities, make sure you fix them right away. When you discover and solve problems early, you can save hundreds (or even thousands of pounds) that you’ll otherwise have to spend on fixing severe roof damage.

4. General inspection

Once every two years, roof maintenance should include a general inspection. Here, you’ll need to take a closer look at your roof and make sure that everything is in the right place.

The inspection can take a few days and should include a full check of not only shingles and fasteners, but any other area that’s hardly visible from the ground. If your home has a metal roof, a general inspection is an excellent opportunity to also check for stains, scratches, or any other small problems that could cause further damages to the paint.

5. Insulation check

Loft insulation can deteriorate over time, which impacts its effectiveness. A regular check is useful not only for keeping your roof in good condition but also for reducing energy usage and heating costs.

You should conduct a loft insulation inspection every two or three years. If you find any signs of damage, have the insulation inspected by an expert.

6. Structural roof maintenance

Structural roof maintenance is mostly required with metal tiles. You should schedule this once every two or three years, depending on the type of roof and weather conditions, such as strong wind, frequent temperature fluctuations, or heavy rain.

For structural roof maintenance, you should rely on a professional team. As a guideline, make sure that the contractor checks panel seams, as well as all the rivets and screws, and fixes or substitutes broken items if necessary. Replacing sealant and flashing materials could also be required.

7. Tree pruning

In the Spring, you should always inspect overhanging tree limbs and trim them, if necessary. This way, you’ll reduce the amount of debris and leaves that end up on your roof. You’ll also minimise the risk of moss, and prevent damage in the case of a storm.

These simple roof maintenance tasks can help you to keep your house in good shape. Prevention is a cost-effective way of preserving and protecting your roof while maintaining the comfort of your home. Not only will your roof look better for longer, but you’ll also spend less in the long-run and ensure that your house is safe and secure for you and your family.

Lightweight roof tiles from Metrotile

Metrotile offer Europe’s no.1 steel roofing tile which comes with a list of benefits that makes it worth considering for every roof. To find out more about Metrotile’s range of lightweight roofing products, call today on 01249 658 514 or use our contact form for a quick response.