Every year, millions of homeowners replace their roof, either because it has reached the end of its lifespan or the last storm really did a number on it. But even though everyone eventually needs to replace their roof, there are several roof maintenance Des Moines tips for shingle roofs you can use to avoid tearing it off sooner rather than later.

Roof maintenance is the process of regularly inspecting and cleaning your roof to ensure that it remains in good condition. This helps to prevent problems like leaks, drafts, and damage from storms. While you can do some simple roof maintenance tasks yourself, it’s important to hire a professional roofer in Des Moines for more complex tasks like repairs and replacements. A professional roofer will have the knowledge and experience to safely and correctly carry out these tasks. In addition, they can also help you choose the best materials for your roof, based on factors like your climate and the slope of your roof. Regular roof maintenance is an important part of keeping your home in good condition and protecting your family from the elements. So be sure to add it to your regular home maintenance schedule.

We’ve put together a quick-hitting roof maintenance checklist that will help you identify and prevent the kind of damage that spells doom for your average roof.

The Essential Roof Maintenance Checklist

1. Check Your Shingles Regularly

So, how do you maintain a roof? Well, the first step is simply to check up on it as often as possible, especially after a heavy storm or high winds. The good news is that you don’t have to clamber up a ladder to get a good look at your roof. Instead, all you need is a good pair of binoculars to see any potential problems. Here’s what we look for when inspecting your roof:

• Missing shingles
• Curling shingles
• Cracked shingles
• Peeling flashing
• Missing granules

Any of the above signs of damage should be looked at as soon as possible, preferably by a professional roofing contractor in Des Moines who can safely make the necessary repairs.

2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection

Wondering why you should pay for a roof inspection Des Moines when you have our roof maintenance checklist right in front of you? An inspector will be able to spot potential problems you might’ve missed, as well as provide you with invaluable tips for maintaining your roof. They’ll also give you a rough idea of how many more years it will last. Most roofers recommend inspections every two years, but an inspection once a year will increase your chances of finding potential issues before they become costly repairs.

3. Look for Leaks in Your Attic & Ceilings

Another good tip that your roof needs maintenance is finding water stains inside your house. You should be checking your ceilings and attic just as regularly as your roof itself for water damage to head off any serious issues. The most common warning signs of a leak are:

Musty odors in certain rooms.

Water stains on your ceiling.

Spots on your exterior walls.

Bulging patches on your interior walls.

If you notice any of these signs, your next step is to locate the leak and call in a professional to patch up the hole in your roof. Though if you’re comfortable working on your home yourself, there are a couple of DIY repairs in the post below you may consider.

4. Wash Your Roof

A key piece of advice when it comes to maintaining a shingle roof is to wash it. At some point, your roof will start to look dirty, with long, dark streaks flowing from peak to eave. This is algae growing on your house. Algae won’t cause any immediate damage, but if you leave it long enough it can slowly rot your shingles.

5. Clean Your Gutters

No roof maintenance checklist would be complete without this tip. Though it’s a dirty job, cleaning out your gutters is an essential part of maintaining your roof. Clogged gutters make it easy for water to seep under the structure of your roof, creating more than just a few water stains. Most experts recommend cleaning them out twice a year, once in late spring and again in early fall, as part of a regular fall home maintenance checklist.

6. Trim Any Overhanging Branches

Tree branches can be a problem for a few reasons, the most obvious being the risk of them falling on your roof during severe weather. Be vigilant when it comes to your landscaping and cut off any large branches that are directly over your roof. This will help reduce storm damage, while also preventing leaves from piling on top of your shingles, absorbing moisture and eventually rotting your roof.

7. Patch Up Your Chimney

While running through your roof maintenance checklist, make sure you check out your chimney for cracks or missing mortar. Structural damage of any size can cause bricks to start falling out, which can damage your roof, let alone cause your chimney to collapse. You can either hire a contractor to patch up any mortar cracks, or break out a trowel and do it yourself.

A sloping or leaning chimney can be caused by issues with your home’s foundation as well. If you notice your chimney has moved, call a contractor to have it fixed right away and check the rest of your home for signs of foundation problems.

Important Roof Maintenance Tip: Always have a spotter when you’re working on a ladder. If you’re working on the roof itself, invest in a safety harness to avoid serious injuries. Better still, have a professional roofer take care of the repairs. Also, do not forget to check out our roofing FAQ .