Keeping your roof in top condition is very important. Your roof is designed to protect your home from a number of different threats, including harsh weather, debris and pests. It also helps to retain heat in your home and keeps your property cool, giving you and your family a protected place to live.
Over time, external factors can have a big impact on the condition of your roof. From harsh heavy rain and wind to storms, ice and intense UV rays, the weather can have adverse effects on our roofs, which is why it is important that we look after it as best as possible.
There are lots of things we can do to ensure our roof remains in top condition across the year. Even if your roof is brand new, getting into the habit of carrying out routine maintenance is important – and will save you plenty of money on repairs in the long run.
Below, we take a look at how to look after your roof throughout the year and how to keep it in top condition. From simple inspections to trimming back overhanging tree branches and clearing debris from your roof, we’ve got you covered.
Inspect the roof at least twice a year
First and foremost, you should get into the habit of regularly inspecting your roof. Regular inspections are very important – and you should inspect the inside of your roof as well as the outside. We recommend inspecting your roof at least twice a year, once during spring and once in autumn. This will ensure that your roof is always prepared for winter and then inspected again once the harsh winter weather has settled.
Start by inspecting the inside of your house. If you notice any dark or brown spots or blistering and bubbling paint on your ceiling, this is an indication of water damage and leaks. Inspect your loft on a sunny day as the sun will highlight any broken or worn shingles. Keep an eye out for water damage and leaks in your loft, which are signs that your roof needs repairing as soon as possible. If you notice any issues, you should always get in touch with a professional to repair these for you.
When inspecting your roof from outside, remember to put your safety first. You shouldn’t walk on your roof. Look out for damaged, missing, curling, cupping and chipped shingles. If your roof is visibly uneven, this could be an indication that it needs replacing due to age. Check skylights, vents and any other structures that penetrate through the roof. If the sealant is cracking or has peeled away, it requires your attention.
Keep the roof clean
You should keep your roof as clean as possible throughout the year. We recommend taking the time at least twice a year to clean and clear your roof; this will ensure that it remains in top condition and will minimise the amount of damage caused, as well as improve its appearance.
Clean and clear debris from your roof with a power washer, and keep an eye out for any moss growing on your roof. Moss holds water and therefore it’s important that it’s removed. If you spot moss early, you should be able to simply sweep it off your roof. However, if moss has established itself, it will need to be killed off.
You should keep your roof free of debris at all times. This removes the potential for damage to your roof and helps to keep it looking great all year round. Over time, dirt, pine needles, leaves and branches can clutter your roof and damage it, so make sure you take the time to remove debris and keep it clear.
Trim overhanging branches
When you inspect your roof, keep an eye out for any overhanging tree branches. If there are trees that grow close to your house, you should monitor them throughout the year and trim back any overhanging branches as they grow. Overhanging branches can be a cause for concern for a number of reasons; falling leaves, twigs or pine needles can fall in the valleys of your roof, rotting and weakening the tiles, and causing damage to the structure of your roof.
If a branch falls on your roof, it can gouge the roof and damage the tiles, leading to a whole host of problems and some potentially expensive repairs. To prevent this from happening, always trim back branches and keep an eye on trees growing close to your home.
Keep the gutters clean
It’s not just the surface of your roof that needs to be kept clean and free of debris. You should pay special attention to your gutters too and take the time to regularly maintain them. If debris piles up too high in the gutters and they become clogged, water cannot flow through to the downspouts, and will instead end up soaking the roof and rotting parts of it. This can cost you hundreds of pounds in repairs and lead to a whole host of problems.
Clean your gutters regularly and keep them clear of leaves. Again, we recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year – once in spring and once in autumn. The main function of a gutter is to keep rainwater away from your roof and roofing tiles, so it’s important that they are free of debris and can perform their job as best as possible. When inspecting your gutters, always make sure that they are firmly attached to your home.
Waterproof your roof
Applying a roof sealant will help to protect your roof from the elements and ensure that it remains in tip top condition. Roof sealants are a cheaper alternative to a full re-tile, and will give you peace of mind that your home is protected and safe. As previously discussed, a damaged roof can lead to a number of problems – and therefore it’s essential that you take the all-important steps to protect it.
Applying a protective sealant to your roof will stop it from becoming damaged and protect it from a range of weather conditions and substances, increasing its lifespan and saving you lots of money on repairs in the long run. Applying a roof sealant is a great way to keep your roof looking fresh all year round and will prevent it from fading or discolouration over time.
Kingdom Coatings: energy efficient roof and wall coatings throughout Scotland
At Kingdom Roof and Wall Coatings, we provide energy efficient roof and wall coatings throughout Scotland. Our unique specialist coating not only restores old and tired looking roofs by enhancing their appearance, but it also extends the lifespan of your roof tiles. All of our coatings have built in UV inhibitors, meaning that they will not fade or change colour over time.
Our coatings have been formulated to protect domestic tiled roofs from adverse effects of weather conditions, and will provide protection for more than 10 years after application, making them a worthwhile investment. Our innovative coating is similar to your body’s skin – it’s wind and water tight, but allows the opportunity to breathe through pores, promoting the circulation of air and preventing condensation.
For more information about our coatings, visit our website today. Alternatively, get in touch to discuss your requirements.
