3 Things You Can Do To Extend The Life Of Your Asphalt Shingle Roof
A roof that is in good condition is critical to the overall safety and structural stability of your home. Replacing your existing roof can be costly, so you likely want to extend the life of your roof for as long as possible.
There are a few things that you can do to ensure that your asphalt shingles will be able to withstand the test of time. Maximize the lifespan of your shingles by taking the following actions.
1. Replace Damaged Flashing
Asphalt shingle roofing systems usually include metal flashing. This flashing is used to protect any seams or openings in your roof against water damage. Flashing has the potential to sustain serious damage in the face of a severe storm or extreme weather.
You may notice corrosion on the surface of the flashing or see that the edges have started to lift. An experienced roofer can replace damaged flashing easily to ensure that your asphalt shingles don't sustain any costly water damage.
2. Replace Damaged Shingles
Individual shingles can wear out faster than the shingles around them. This creates a weak spot in your roofing system. A damaged shingle can serve as the catalyst for major water damage across the entire surface of your roof. You need to be watching for damaged shingles so that they can be replaced by an experienced roofing professional.
Dark spots on your roof could be a sign that shingles in the area have shed their protective granules. High winds or falling tree branches can cause some shingles to come loose and fall off your roof. Immediately replacing damaged shingles will ensure that the integrity of your roofing system remains intact for as long as possible.
3. Schedule Regular Inspections
Your roof might appear to be in good condition, but there could be underlying damage that isn't visible to the untrained eye. Roofing contractors are able to complete an in-depth inspection of your roofing system to determine the condition it's in.
All layers of your roofing system will be evaluated for energy efficiency and water damage. Regular roofing inspections allow your roofer to identify subtle changes in the condition of your roof that can be addressed before serious damage occurs. This will help to extend the life of your shingle roof well into the future.
Do your part to maximize the lifespan of your roofing system if you want to avoid a roof replacement in the near future.