5 smart ways to protect your roof

For many homeowners, their house is the largest investment they've ever made and their most important one. Protecting that investment is a priority, which is why roof maintenance should be top of mind.

“The roof is the main protecting point of your home and the people and belongings inside of it,” explains Blake Musheno, national director of sales for Aspen Contracting, Inc. “The roof provides protection from inclement weather, including rain, hail, winds and sleet. You must regularly ensure it’s in good shape and watch for water leaks, rot, sun damage and breakage.”

To help guide homeowners, Musheno shares five different ways you can protect your roof:

1. Remove tree branches and debris

If you have trees and other greenery in your yard, ensure it’s not touching the roof. These carry moisture that can scrape and puncture shingles. At least once a year look for any branches that need trimming and clean the roof of debris that can accumulate through the seasons, such as twigs, seeds and leaves.

2. Have proper ventilation

Ventilation is critical to maintaining the roof and overall health of a home. It’s important to check the attic space to ensure proper ventilation. Even if your attic space is fairly cool, it could still be moist. Moisture in the attic can cause significant problems including mold on the underside of the roof decking which can lead to rot and deterioration.

3. Check for ponding

Keep in mind, improper ventilation can be a root cause of ponding water, and in cold climates this can lead to ice dams. It's essential to ensure that ponding areas on your roof are repaired so that they shed water properly away from the home. Areas that form ponds can cause big problems during warm weather or when it rains.

4. Install algae-resistant shingles

A roof that has black or green streaks or patches is more than an eyesore. These markings can indicate a big problem: algae. This microscopic growth can be a huge detriment to a roof's lifespan and is especially common in moist climates or houses that are significantly shaded. Consider installing algae-resistant shingles, which are designed to deter this growth.

5. Schedule inspections after severe weather

Contact your local roofer after significant storms or unusual weather to check for new damage. With a professional inspection, you can potentially file an insurance claim, complete a repair and feel confident that your roof is in good condition and your property investment is protected.

When you need to find reliable, local contractors for your roof, consider starting your search at Modernize Home Services. This free online resource connects homeowners with trustworthy contractors for home improvement services. Learn more about home roof installation.

If you do need to replace your roof, there are a variety of materials you can select from. Some of the most popular include:

Laminated asphalt shingles: This is the most popular roofing material today and often comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

Metal shingles: Metal shingles and tiles are becoming increasingly popular and provide wide access to different design options.

Concrete tiles: Concrete is a strong material that provides a unique look for your roof but can cost more than alternatives.

"Roof damage is difficult for the average homeowner to flag and can occur even if you have a newer roof. You never know when a roof leak is about to happen, so having a contractor look at your roof annually is a good idea," advises Musheno. "Get multiple opinions and determine whether repairs or replacement is necessary before you suffer any damage to your home."

Modernize provides a free-of-charge roof replacement cost calculator with localized pricing information that enables homeowners to estimate what a new roof costs in their area.

For more information and homeowner resources, visit Modernize.com.