The average asphalt shingle roof will last about 20 years, provided that it undergoes regular maintenance. However, there are a few extra things that you can do to maximize its longevity. Local storm damage repair specialist Hershey Exteriors shares what you can do to extend the service life of your investment.

4 Effective Ways to Extend Your Roof’s Service Life

1. Clean Your Roof Regularly

Keeping your roof clean is vital for its longevity. A buildup of dirt and moss can damage shingles by removing the protective coating, increasing the likelihood of decay. To prevent this, make sure to sweep off debris from the roof surfaces regularly with a broom or water from a garden hose.

  • Inspect the Roof for Damage. Inspecting your roof for damage is the best way to catch and fix any problems before they worsen. You should look out for areas where shingle granules have collected and signs of mold or moss build-up. Don't forget to check for cracks or holes, and if you find any damage, get it repaired immediately.

  • Remove Debris. To reduce further wear and tear, remove any debris from your roof whenever it is safe for you to do so. This can be twigs, branches, or leaves caught up in the shingles' edges. Whenever these items accumulate, they will put additional pressure on your roof, which can cause significant damage over time.

  • Clean Gutters. Clogged gutters are the number one cause of roof leaks. Make sure to clean them regularly and check for debris that may obstruct the flow of runoff away from your property. This will help keep water moving away from your home rather than having it collect around your roof and potentially cause damage to the structure itself.

2. Protect the Roof From the Elements

The sun, wind, and rain can all cause damage to any residential or commercial roofing system over time. To help protect your roof from the elements, you should consider introducing appropriate measures such as installing an energy-efficient heat shield to reduce heat absorption or having impact-resistant shingles installed. Doing this will help prevent horizontal and vertical damage on each side of your home's exterior, protecting it much better in the long term.

  • Trim Back Trees and Bushes. Foliage growing near your roof can cause various issues. For instance, expect massive tree branches to rub against the roof surfaces every time there is a strong wind. When this happens, shards of tile or shingle material can come loose over time. Also, fallen leaves end up clogging the inside of the gutters, preventing water runoff moving toward the downspouts. Make sure you trim back any nearby vegetation regularly to avoid these potential issues.

  • Install Gutter Protection. If you have trees nearby, consider installing gutter covers or guards for your gutter system. Depending on their composition, their main purpose is to prevent leaves and other debris from getting inside your gutters while only allowing water runoff to pass through. It is a worthwhile investment if you are looking for another way to deal with gutter clogs.

  • Make Sure Shingles Are Secured. To ensure the shingles in your roof remain secure, make sure to check that they are firmly nailed into place. If a nail has become loose, get it fixed by a professional roofing and siding contractor as soon as possible. This is to avoid leaving a gap that can open up and let water seep through.

  • Install a Roof Coating. Adding a coating to your roof will help protect it from the elements and extend its life. A good quality waterproofing product should be applied by a professional so it can thoroughly coat the surface. This helps prevent water from seeping through any small cracks in the shingle and protects your home's interior from potential dampness issues. 

3. Check for Ventilation Problems

Good ventilation is essential to a healthy roof because it prevents moisture from collecting and forming mold or mildew. Roofers can help you measure adequate airflow through your home's attic so that the heat can escape. This reduces the chance of ice forming on your shingles during cold winter months.

  • Inspect the Attic for Signs of Moisture. The attic space is a key area to keep an eye out for signs of moisture. This can seep in from the roof, and if not caught quickly, it will damage wooden structures or insulation, leading to costly repairs. Make sure to check for any dampness or discoloration often and call professionals if necessary so that any problems can be taken care of promptly.

  • Make Sure Vents Are Unobstructed. It is equally important to make sure that your home's vents are unobstructed for the air movement to be as efficient as possible. Make sure you check this regularly, and if items are blocking them, remove them so unrestricted airflow can happen continually.

  • Check for Poor Insulation. If your home is not insulated properly, it could cause water to pool around the roof and eventually seep into other areas of the building. Poor insulation will also lead to more energy being lost in your home. Ensure you get a professional roofing and siding contractor to check so you can maintain low electricity bills and a healthy roof.

  • Ensure Adequate Venting. Finally, make sure your roof vents are adequate enough to reduce thermal buildup around the roof. Thermal buildup can cause tiles and shingles to buckle or become softer, making them prone to damage. The ventilation also reduces heat entering your home during summer, keeping your interiors well-aired and cool. 

4. Perform Repairs Quickly

When you find damage to your residential or commercial roofing system, it is essential to take care of it quickly to prevent it from getting worse. A reliable roofer should be able to inspect and advise quickly so that future problems can be avoided.

  • Fix Small Problems Immediately. It is advisable to fix small problems as soon as you spot them. These are often signs of major issues that could lurk beneath, so they must be taken care of quickly before they become irreparable.

  • Hire a Professional for Major Repairs. For large-scale repairs, it is always a good idea to hire a professional contractor. Hiring an experienced team of roofers will give you peace of mind that the job will be done correctly and your roof will be properly protected for many more years to come.

In conclusion, you can extend your roof's life in many ways. If you keep these tips in mind and stick to a regular maintenance schedule, you can be sure that your roof will remain safe and secure for a much longer time. For any storm damage repair or your residential and commercial roofing needs, it's always best to call on the expert services offered by Hershey Exteriors. They have years of experience handling various roofing issues throughout the area. Give them a call at (302) 569-9039 today and ensure your home is securely protected well into the future.