There’s no shortage of advice when it comes to roof maintenance, but not all of it is accurate. Adhering to these myths may cause your roof to have a shorter life, require more repairs, or even void your warranty. Here, we will debunk some of these myths and tell you what keeps your roof in the best shape!
The most popular one is that the absence of leakage means that there is no problem with your roof. Next is when people think power washing your roof is a cool idea. Another popular myth is that people think they can repair the roof alone. It is best to hire an expert roofing contractor for professional services to maintain roof efficiency and function.
Most Common Roof Maintenance Myths
These are some of the most common myths related to roof maintenance:
Myth 1: No Leak, No Problems With the Roof
Even if water isn’t dripping from your roof, it doesn’t mean it is working just fine. Many roofing issues tend to worsen silently and develop gradually, such as cracked shingles, loose flashing, or soft spots caused by moisture. By the time a leak inside your house is detected, the damage can be significant and expensive to repair.
Solution: Schedule regular roof inspections, preferably at least once a year or after heavy storms. A professional can identify hidden damage in the early stages and save you from costly repairs later on.
Myth 2: You Can Replace Only The Missing Shingles
Curling or missing shingles prevent your roof from providing optimal protection. While you’re not likely to see these problems from ground level, they compromise the barrier against water and wind that your roof is meant to provide.
Solution: Don’t wait for shingles to fall off completely. If your shingles are curled or decaying, even if they’re not blowing off, replace them. Timely repairs now can help you avoid the need for a full roof replacement later.
Myth 3: Power Washing the Roof is a Cool and Easy Cleaning Shortcut
While it’s satisfying to blast away lichen, moss, and dirt with a power washer, it will actually wear down the protective granules on your shingles. Even worse, water pressure will force moisture under your roofing layers and into your home, leading to long-term water damage.
Solution: Instead, clean your roof gently. Brush with a soft brush, or use a mild, eco-friendly roof cleaner if necessary, to remove moss, algae, or dirt. Always consult a roofing expert before applying any chemical cleaner.
Myth 4: New Roof Doesn’t Need Maintenance for Years
It is a common myth that you won’t have to endure several years of effort if you have installed a new roof. A new roof is a smart investment, but it does require care. Weather, falling branches, animals, and ventilation issues can all result in damage, even on recently replaced roofs.
Solution: Begin a maintenance schedule as soon as you have a new roof. Routine roof inspections are the key to keeping your warranty intact, protecting your investment, and ensuring that your roof will last for years.
Myth 5: Gutters Are Not Closely Associated with the Roof
Your roof gutters play a vital role in keeping your roof in good condition. When they become clogged or broken, water can overflow and damage the eave of your home, fascia boards, and even the foundation.
Solution: Clear your gutters of leaves and other debris, especially before winter and following heavy storms. Getting gutter guards makes your seasonal roofing maintenance easier and more efficient.
Myth 6: You Can DIY Roof Maintenance
While homeowners may be able to address basic maintenance tasks, such as cleaning gutters or assessing for visible signs of damage, many roof conditions call for expert skills and professional tools. Climbing on your roof can also be risky without the proper equipment.
Solution: Only licensed roofing contractors should handle thorough inspections, repairs, and installations. They’re trained, know how to do it safely, and their work is often guaranteed.
Myth 7: Roof Repairs Are More Expensive Than Replacements
Roof replacements are expensive. They can be pricey, but it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg just to fix that little leak. Repairing a few cracked shingles or caulk-sealing flashing early can prevent pricier problems down the road.
Solution: Deal with small issues immediately. Regular upkeep divides costs over time, keeps damage in check, and eliminates the need for emergency repairs.
Conclusion
Caring for your roof is essential to keep it solid and secure. For beneficial roof maintenance, it is important not to focus on the myths and pay attention to what is good for your roof. The most popular myths are that no leakage means no damage or that power washing is good for your roof. Regular checks, mild cleanings, and hiring professional roofing contractors can help keep your roof alive and secure, saving you money and preventing damage.
