Regular maintenance of your home’s systems can help to maintain its value and save money on repairs. Your home’s roof is a critical system that deserves careful attention to function well. Here are 5 tips for preventative maintenance of your roof that can help you avoid problems throughout the year.

Do Regular Inspections

Each spring, you should stand some distance away from your home and take a look at the condition of your roof. If you see damaged areas, missing shingles or shingles that appear out of alignment, darkened areas on the roof or damaged gutters, call a roofing contractor to do a closer inspection and make repairs. Neglect of your roofing materials can end up costing you more money for a new roof.

Cut Branches That Hang Over Your Roof

Large trees on your property may allow branches to hang over your roof. These branches can scrape and degrade your roof shingles over time. The shade from trees and organic material from falling leaves can also promote mold growth. In addition, these branches can break during severe storms, causing damage to your roof. Have a tree trimming company cut back large, overhanging branches to help keep your roof in good condition.

Remove Mold Growth on Roofing Materials

If your roof lies in the shade, you may develop problems with mold. Mold often develops on wet, dark surfaces and can grow the edges of shingles, lifting them up and allowing water to soak the underlayment. This can be the cause of leaks into the home interior. If you notice a heavy growth of mold on roof shingles, talk to a local contractor that roof mold removal.

Replace Missing or Damaged Tiles Immediately

As you inspect your roof you may notice some missing shingles, or you may find pieces of shingles lying in your yard. Even if you don’t have any water intrusion, have the missing or damaged pieces replaced as soon as possible. Degradation of roofing materials can occur that will lead to more expensive repairs.

Look for Damage around Flashings, Chimneys and Vents

Many leaks into the interior of your home start around roof flashings, vents and damaged chimneys. If you are not inclined to climb ladders to check these areas of your roof, contact professional roofers to give your roof a thorough inspection and to make necessary repairs before they allow moisture to intrude into your interior rooms.

If you ensure that your roof is properly maintained, you can avoid the common causes of leaks inside your home. These five tips provide the most effective prevention of problems and can help to save you money on roofing repairs.