If you’re like most people, you probably think of your roof as one of the most important aspects of your home. And for good reason – a sturdy roof is essential for keeping your home and its occupants safe and dry. But even if you take great care of your roof, there’s no guarantee that it will last forever. If you’re the owner of an older home, it’s especially important to be proactive about roof maintenance and prevention, because sooner or later your roof is going to need some extra TLC. Here are 10 ways to help keep your older home’s roof in good shape!
1. Check for Damage
When was the last time you climbed up on your roof? If it’s been a long time, now might be the perfect opportunity to do some maintenance. While you’re up there, inspect your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they’re not clogged with debris that could cause water damage to your roof. Also, check around any skylights or other rooftop features – patches of missing shingles could indicate more serious issues that may need attention sooner rather than later! If any problems come to light as you’re examining your roof, don’t delay in contacting a professional contractor for repairs. Putting off small issues can only lead to larger ones down the road.
2. Find Inspiration in Artwork
If you love the look of your roof, showcase it uniquely by adding some decorative touches! For example, striped shingles can mimic the appearance of a laid-back summertime paint job. Or, if you’re looking for a more sophisticated style, metal tiles can be stamped or etched with beautiful designs that glint in the sun. Not only will these simple upgrades give your older home a new lease on life, but they also won’t cost you an arm and a leg – many decorative tiles come in budget-friendly price ranges.
3. Take Advantage Of Solar Power
If your roof is still good to go but your energy bills are out of control, why not consider harnessing the power of the sun? Installing solar panels is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and also save some cash. With tax credits and other incentives, going solar is easier today than ever before!
4. Add Some Gracious Curb Appeal
Remember that first impression when you were looking to buy a home? The exterior was everything! If your roof is still in good shape but it’s showing its age, consider painting or re-shingling your roof for an instant facelift. Not only will the new look add value to your property, but it will also be sure to impress potential buyers if you plan on putting your home on the market anytime soon.
5. Inspect Your Roof For Water Damage
As we mentioned earlier, water damage can cause major problems for older homes. And while natural disasters are an obvious threat, did you know that condensation can also pose a risk? Because older homes aren’t as airtight as their modern counterparts, they can be at an increased risk of moisture damage. That’s why it’s important to inspect your roof regularly for signs of water or ice dams. If you notice any buildup of snow along the sides of your home, there might be some leakage happening in the attic above. Other warning signs include discoloration on ceilings and walls, dips in paint or siding, and overall deterioration around doors and windows.
6. Use The Right Protection
It’s not just harsh weather conditions that can lead to roof trouble with your older home; repeated exposure to sun and rain can also cause wear and tear. If you don’t want to end up with a leaky mess on your hands, it’s always best to play it safe! Installing some extra roofing insulation or even wall insulation is sure to help seal any cracks that may be letting in the elements.
7. Look For Signs Of Animal Damage
Cats, squirrels, birds; if you’ve got any furry friends around the house, make sure they aren’t doing damage by running across your roof. A single paw print or bird dropping on your shingles can cause serious problems for your home over time (not to mention leave your roof looking unsightly!). Make an effort each month (or more often!) to inspect the exterior of your home for signs of roof damage.
8. Schedule Regular Ventilation Inspections
Remember those insulation upgrades we mentioned earlier? Well, adding some extra insulation around your attic is a great way to keep out excess heat and humidity – but it also means that the air in your attic could become extremely warm and moist over time! To prevent any major problems from developing due to poor ventilation, schedule regular inspections with a professional contractor. They’ll be able to check for any issues and recommend any necessary remedies before they become serious threats.
