Home Improvement Projects That Will Increase the Life of Your Siding and Roof

Your siding and roof are your home’s first defense against the weather. You'll want them of course to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, even with the best maintenance, these same elements can cause damage to your home’s exteriors. As with most things in life, you only get what you put into your home’s exteriors. To help you get the best value for your roofing and siding, here are some options.

Repair damaged or clogged gutters and downspouts.

Gutter systems are not meant to collect leaves. They serve a practical purpose, protecting your roof and siding from runoff. Although it may seem innocuous, as rain is just a natural phenomenon, consider that siding often has small cracks at the joints of boards and sides. This could lead to moisture getting behind your home’s siding, which can cause mold and leaks, as well as damage to your walls and cavity insulation.

Your roof can also be affected by drainage problems. Your drainage system could become blocked or bent towards your home or damaged down the line. This can cause your rainwater to pool, or “pond,” as it is commonly known in roofing. Ponding can cause roof damage by adding weight. Water is heavy and can cause structural problems down the line. This can lead to leaks or the growth of algae and vegetation. Is your roof a pond?

Increase attic ventilation.

Ask a contractor about attic ventilation to get their opinions. There is much debate about how to vent a roof and how much ventilation can affect the roof’s life expectancy. But, many roofing professionals will agree that poor ventilation can lead to long-term problems. Poorly ventilated roofs can heat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. That’s enough heat to cook a pork loin. Asphalt shingles may be damaged by high temperatures, so you might need to re-roof them sooner.

Get your asphalt roof cleaned.

Asphalt roofing that isn’t exposed to sun or partial shade can cause it to dry slower than normal. This could lead to mold and other problems over time. Some professionals believe that heat from algae buildup can cause an increase in air conditioning costs. To remove algae streaks from your property and restore curb appeal, hire a professional cleaning company. This is not a job you want to do on the weekend. The roof can be damaged by power washing. This is the contrary of what you want to do.

Ask your cleaning company for a soft wash. This is a solution that’s pumped onto your roof using an air compressor. This gentle cleaning will not only keep your roof looking great, but it will also protect your asphalt shingles. It’s worth spending a little extra now to maintain your roof.