Save Money by Maintaining Your Roof

GALT — Roof maintenance is one of the best ways for homeowners to save money over time. After all, it’s a lot easier and less expensive to maintain a roof than it is to replace one. And when a roof isn’t properly maintained, it typically needs to be replaced a lot sooner than anticipated.

Roof maintenance is important because most roofs have “trouble areas” that require ongoing attention. One of these areas is valleys—intersections where two sections of the roof slope down to meet each other. Debris tends to collect in valleys, and if it isn’t routinely cleared out, it can hinder the roof’s natural drainage and cause water to collect. Over time, this condition can lead to problems like rot and leaks.

Another vulnerable aspect of a roof is pipe jacks—holes where plumbing and exhaust pipes come out the top of the roof. These pipes typically have rubber seals to protect against moisture intrusion, but over time, sunlight can damage them. When these seals are compromised, water may be able to get beneath the roof and compromise its integrity.

When left undetected, the damage caused by these types of issues can cost a lot of money. That’s why it’s wise to have your roof inspected every two to three years. A professional roofer will be able to spot such issues and address them before they develop into bigger, more expensive ones.