Six Roof Maintenance Dos’ and Don’ts Every Homeowner Needs To Know.

The roof is an integral part of your home and roof maintenance is so important. It plays a crucial role in keeping the house structurally sound and helps to keep you warm and dry.  

But the roof can easily slip from home maintenance lists due to its inaccessibility. Positioned high up, we often adopt an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach to looking after it. We might not give it a thought until we spring a leak. But taking a more active approach to roof maintenance can save us from paying out for large repairs to the home.  

However, catching problems before they can cause damage is easier said than done. Firstly, you need to know what to look out for and secondly, you need to know how to carry out the necessary maintenance and repairs. Although you can’t tackle everything yourself, there are some things that every homeowner should know about, including these six roof maintenance dos and don’ts. 

Don’t rely on ladders 

When you’re thinking about any roof maintenance, it’s important to think in terms of safety at all times. Accessing your roof is always going to be difficult unless it’s a single storey flat roof. But simply propping a ladder against a wall isn’t the right way to do it. Working high up on a ladder is dangerous due to its unsteady nature, so scaffolding with the appropriate platforms and barriers is essential to carrying out roof work safely.  

Don’t take on big jobs yourself 

Even with the correct access, most roofing jobs carry a high risk. That’s why it’s recommended that you never work alone. But it’s also advisable to have the correct PPE and training to minimise these risks. That’s why it’s never advisable to take on big roofing jobs yourself. Hiring a roofing company is the best option to ensure your roof is safely and properly repaired. Strata management companies often coordinate with professional roofing services to maintain the integrity of shared properties and ensure all repairs are done to a high standard.

Do check your roofer’s credentials 

When hiring a roofer, it’s always essential to check their credentials to make sure they’re up to the job and you’re protected. Ideally, you want an established, local roofing company with a good track record. Look for an NFRC-approved contractor that has the right paperwork in place, including insurance and licences. 

For homeowners in Newcastle, it’s beneficial to consult with specialists in metal roofing Newcastle to ensure durability and compliance with local building standards.

Do remove roof moss 

Although it may look harmless, it’s wise to remove roof moss as part of your home maintenance plan. Homes surrounded by lots of trees will commonly get moss growing on the roof tiles. And although it may look nice, it can cause problems as moss retains a lot of water and can creep under your tiles, lifting them up. This results in rainwater making its way into your home. 

Don’t leave damaged tiles 

If you look up and spot any damaged tiles on your roof, it’s a good idea to get them replaced. Chips and cracks in clay, concrete and slate tiles will potentially let rainwater through. But equally, damaged tiles find it easier to slip out of place, leaving larger gaps and causing a danger if they fall below. 

Don’t ignore your gutters 

All the rainwater that runs off your roof channels down into your gutters, so an important part of roof maintenance is keeping your gutters in good working order. Keeping them clear of debris and protecting them with guards is essential. You should also check them periodically during a rain shower to make sure the water is running away efficiently. Overflowing and dribbling water could be a sign of a blockage, cracks, sagging or broken brackets.  

Do get your roof inspected 

To spot problems quickly and ensure your roof is ready for bad weather, you should get your roof inspected once a year. Your local roofing company can easily do this for you. Some people prefer to do this before winter hits for peace of mind, while others like to have it done in spring to check for signs of storm damage. It’s also a good idea to undertake a quick visual scan of your roof from the front and back every few months, to help spot problems.