Extend the Life of Your Florida Roof

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Extend the Life of Your Florida Roof

 

Year after year, your Florida roof weathers rain, wind, sunshine, and possibly a major hurricane or two. Your roof will experience wear and tear over time, as the protective layers slowly age and disintegrate. Whether your roof is new or 15 years old, there are special precautions you can take to keep your Florida roof in the best possible shape for the longest amount of time. A roof replacement is a major investment, so homeowners need to protect it to avoid costly roof repairs and premature replacement. We’ve collected our favorite tips to extend the life of your Florida roof.

 

 

 

Shingle Maintenance

Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against inclement weather. You want to protect your shingles to ward off decay and premature aging. Some simple tasks you can do to extend shingle life include:

 

  • Frequent Inspections. Avoid the out of sight, out of mind mentality, and make sure to perform regular inspections of your roof. You want to make sure your shingles are clean and free of debris, along with checking your skylights and the flashing around your chimney. Check to make sure vents are functioning properly and not blocked. Examine your shingles and surrounding areas for mold, leaks, rot, and structural damage.
  • Replace Damaged Shingles. The longer you wait to replace worn or damaged shingles, the more costly the roof repair will be. When shingles are missing or worn, they become vulnerable to further damage and cannot provide the same level of protection for you and your family. If damaged shingles are not replaced quickly, it can lead to more severe damage down the line like leaks, mold, and rot.
  • Add Protective Coating. A liquid polymer coating can prevent weather damage, strengthen shingles and keep them in good condition for a longer period of time. The coating is most effective when applied to new shingles.

 

 

 

Clean Your Gutters

When gutters are clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris, they cannot effectively allow rainwater to drain through downspouts away from your home. During Florida’s hurricane season, you need to be vigilant in keeping gutters clean. Clogged gutters lead to excess moisture building up along the shingles and adding extra weight on top of your roof. Be mindful to clean your gutters at least twice per year, typically in the spring and again in the fall to keep gutters functioning properly.

 

 

 

Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Trimming back tree limbs that hang over your home is essential for a healthy, long-lasting roof. Cutting tree branches at least 10 feet away from your roof provides peace of mind and staves off various elements from prematurely damaging your roof. Benefits of trimming your branches back include:

  • Preventing stray leaves and moss growth from accumulating on your roof.
  • Protecting your home from branch damage during high wind storms.
  • Hindering squirrels, rodents, and insects from finding easy access to your roof. These critters can eat away at your roof and create nests.

 

 

 

Eliminate Moss Growth

Moss growth is both unsightly and dangerous for your roof. Moss collects moisture and traps it against shingles. When shingles are continually damp, it can lead to wear and tear, cupping, and curled edges. Simply wiping the moss off or spraying it down with a hose will not hinder the growth. A professional roofer can treat the moss with specialized chemicals and prevent regrowth.

 

 

Your roof is an expensive investment, and you want it to last for as long as possible. Identify potential issues before they evolve into costly roof repairs. By maintaining your roof and taking the time to inspect it for areas of vulnerability, you can add years to your roof’s lifespan and help it function optimally.