The Facts Behind Common Roof Maintenance Myths

There are several misconceptions and myths about roofing maintenance that you should know. These falsehoods are typically born from a need to save money and avoid calling professionals. For minor repairs or issues, DIY maintenance is generally okay. However, make sure you have correct information so as to avoid causing damage to your roof. Not all the tips you hear about roof maintenance are true or supported by facts. When in doubt, don’t take chances — call a roofing replacement expert for help. 

In this post, Kingdom Roofing discusses common roof maintenance myths and the actual truth behind them.

 

New Roofs Don’t Need Maintenance

 

Although newly built roofs are typically stronger, this does not mean they can go without routine maintenance and inspections. Waiting until your roof breaks down before performing repairs will only cost you more in the long run. When done on a regular basis, preventative maintenance can reduce the risks of roof damage or issues that can’t be properly assessed by the untrained eye. The better you take care of your roof, the longer it will last. When issues with your roof start becoming obvious, then the damage is already done and you might be looking at significant repair or replacement costs.

 

Another reason why you should get a roofing contractor to regularly maintain and inspect your roof is that there are many parts of your roof that deteriorate due to age and constant exposure to the elements. Furthermore, new roofs aren’t necessarily safe from unexpected issues, such as extreme weather events or factory defects and problems that weren’t there during installation.

 

You Can Fix Roofing Problems on Your Own

Roofing systems are constructed by industry professionals who have years of experience and specialized training. Solving roofing issues by yourself may appear to be a more cost-effective option, but it is more likely to result in defective repairs or incorrect assessments, which could lead to more costly problems down the road. Apart from that, doing roofing work on your own is a major safety risk. Performing roof repairs and maintenance on your own while carrying tools and materials can lead to serious accidents.

 

Warranties Cover Everything

 

While it is true that roofing warranties can cover roof repair services and replacement materials, they only offer protection under specific circumstances. Typically, warranties stipulate that your roof should receive regular maintenance and prompt repairs for a warranty to remain valid. Furthermore, take note that a roofing warranty may cover only the shingles and not the underlayment.

 

Metal Roofs Attract Lightning

 

Metals indeed conduct lightning very well, but that doesn’t mean a metal roof will act as a lightning rod and cause your home to be struck more frequently. Moreover, even in the unlikely event of your metal roof being hit by lightning, these types of roofs safely conduct the energy toward the ground or to another conductor. These roofs are also noncombustible, making them safer than standard roofs when it comes to fire hazards.

 

Gutters Don’t Count in Roof Maintenance

 

Gutters are crucial to your roofing system as they direct water and debris away from your home. Most homeowners think that gutters are a completely separate system from your roof, when in reality they work hand in hand in protecting your home. Without a properly functioning gutter, your roof could be in danger of sustaining moisture damage, which could potentially require roofing replacement.

 

Gutter maintenance is also crucial when it comes to preventing other problems on your roof, such as ice dams and wood rot. Ice dams can accumulate during winter if the water on your roof can’t properly drain through your gutters and your attic is not properly ventilated. Wood rot can form on your rafters and other parts of your attic when they are exposed to rainwater or snowmelt for extended periods. Always remember that roofs aren’t designed to hold water.

 

The Sun Can’t Damage a Roof

 

While roofs are designed to withstand constant exposure to heat from the sun, that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to it. Extreme heat can be harsh to asphalt shingles. Furthermore, UV rays are one of the leading causes of the deterioration of many roofing materials, especially shingles. A roofing contractor can offer you more information on your roofing materials, but asphalt shingles in general are not completely resistant to UV rays. The sun’s rays can age and cook your shingles, causing them to wear out more quickly and shorten their life span. One of the most common signs that an asphalt roof has aged or deteriorated due to sun exposure is the fading color of shingles. With regular roof inspections, you can monitor the condition of your shingles and spot issues early. This is crucial to preventing severe roof damage and expensive repairs.

 

Power Washing Is the Best Choice for Cleaning Your Roof

 

Power washing uses highly pressurized water to remove stains and flush out debris from surfaces, and this pressure is usually too strong for most roofs to handle. The water from power washing can seep into your roofing system and cause moisture problems underneath its layers. It can also damage your roofing materials — the protective granules from your shingles could lift or be blown off or knocked askew.

 

There are many ways to clean your roof more gently and effectively. For instance, algae and other growths on your roof can be removed by using a mixture of mild bleach and water and some brushing. If decaying birds or other organic matter are stuck on your roof, you can use cleaning solutions that are intended for protein-based stains and debris. Or better yet, have professionals clean your roof and gutters for peace of mind and increased curb appeal.

 

Keep your roof healthy with the expertise of industry professionals. Kingdom Roofing is a trusted company that can provide first-rate services in a timely manner. From roof repair services to commercial roofing inspections, you can count on our team to deliver excellent workmanship. To request a quote, call us at (941) 217-2411 or fill out our contact form.