How to clean and maintain your roof

Provided by Networx.com

Protect one of the largest parts of your home -- the roof -- with regular cleaning and inspection. This should be done at least twice a year, in fall to get your roof in shape for the coldweather and again in spring to see how it has held up to winter's hardships. More frequent checkups may be necessary after windstorms or heavy snowfalls. Read the terms of your homeowner's insurance policy and your roofing warranty carefully to see what roof maintenance is required. For the best care, set up a professional maintenance plan through your roofing contractor.

Roof Safety Tips

If you are planning to clean your roof yourself, start working from the top downward. Utilize a sturdy ladder and work with a buddy, or at least let someone know that you are cleaning from atop the ladder. Protect your hands with work gloves and your eyes with goggles. Avoid walking on the roof surface where possible; however, if you must do so, make sure you are wearing rubber-soled shoes. Watch out for power lines and stay off the roof during a rainfall to minimize the risk of electric shock.

On Top of Your Roof

What to look out for:

The Roofing Material Itself

Check for loose, cracked, curled, blistered, or missing shingles, which will need to be repaired or replaced.

Look for rot or insect infestation in the wood.

Inspect the flashing in the area of the chimney, vents, and exhaust pipes. Be on the alert for bends, holes, or dry, loose caulk.

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How to clean and maintain your roof