As a homeowner, it’s important to stay on top of maintaining your roof to prevent bigger, costlier issues down the road. There are some roof maintenance tasks that are safe to tackle yourself if you’re comfortable working on a ladder. However, many roofing jobs are best left to the professionals for safety and to ensure they are done properly. Here are some tips from the team at Hinkle Roofing on DIY roof maintenance and when it’s wise to call in the pros.
Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
One roof maintenance task that many homeowners can do themselves is cleaning out gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and potentially leak into your home, causing damage. At least twice a year, such as in late spring and fall, use a small trowel or scoop to remove leaves, sticks, and other debris from gutters. Flush the downspouts with a hose to clear them as well.
However, if your gutters are high off the ground, it’s best to hire a professional gutter cleaning service that has the proper ladders and safety equipment. Trying to clear high gutters yourself can result in a dangerous fall.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Any tree branches hanging over your roof should be trimmed back to prevent them from rubbing on shingles and wearing them down prematurely. If the branches are easily accessible with a pole pruner from ground level, this is a DIY task you can take on. But trimming tall trees often requires professional tree trimming services with bucket trucks or other specialty equipment.
Inspect The Roof from The Ground
You can get a basic sense of your roof’s condition with a visual inspection from the ground using binoculars. Look for cracked, curled, missing, or displaced shingles. Note any areas where granules are falling off or shingles are looking thin or worn. Dark streaks may signal algae growth. Obviously, you won’t be able to get a comprehensive picture from ground level, but it can signal if you need a professional roof inspection.
Leave Complex Roof Work to the Pros
While you may be able to replace a few cracked or missing shingles yourself if you feel comfortable on a ladder, any major roof repairs should be handled by professional roofing contractors. Some roofing tasks that require pros include:
- Roof replacements – Putting on a whole new roof is a huge job requiring specialized knowledge, tools, and safety equipment. Improper installation can lead to leaks and premature failure.
- Flashing repairs – The flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof valleys is critical for waterproofing. Replacing deteriorated flashing is risky on a peaked roof and is best done by pros.
- Fixing leaks – Tracking down and repairing roof leaks can be difficult for DIYers. Allowing moisture issues to persist leads to rot, mold, and interior damage.
Put Safety First
Many homeowners are injured every year from falls from ladders or roofs while attempting DIY roof repairs or installations. Professional roofing contractors have the proper safety harnesses, soft-soled shoes, and experience working on steeply pitched roofs. Your safety – and that of your family walking below – should be the top priority when undertaking any roof work.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if climbing up on your roof for maintenance makes you uncomfortable, it’s still wise to have your roof professionally inspected every few years. Experienced roofers know what to look for in terms of deterioration and can identify small issues before they become huge problems. Catching things like worn flashing, damaged shingles, or gutter problems early can add years to the life of your roof.
Your roof is one of the most important protections that your home has against the elements. With the complexity of roof systems and the dangers of working at heights, most roofing tasks are best left to the insured and certified professionals. DIY maintenance like clearing gutters and looking for obvious issues is fine, but know when to call in the experts to keep your roof – and your home – in top shape.
Contact us today at (205) 324-8545 or through our online form to schedule a roof inspection.
