4 Tips for Keeping the Roof over Your Head in Perfect Condition

You work hard to keep a roof over your head, but do you ever give much thought to the condition of that roof? It just sits there on top of your house, sheltering you and keeping the elements out. Roofs are made to last, and you could live in a home for decades without problems, but when a small problem affects your roof, it can quickly become a large problem if not dealt with immediately. Maintenance is better than cure, so what are some of the things you need to do to keep the top of your home in tip-top condition?

1. Get Up There!

When you were last up on your roof? Inspecting your roof twice a year will alert you to any issues before they become critical, and it's also a good idea to give your roof a thorough once over after a heavy storm. Look out for cracked tiles and shingles or any other holes or obvious damage. If you fancy yourself to be a bit of a DIY guru, then you might opt to replace a broken tile yourself. Actual holes in your roof should be repaired by a professional, like Reliable Restorations, before the damage spreads.

2. Blast It

Moss and algae can be fairly common on roofs and when the growth spreads, the discolouration becomes quite obvious. The good news is that cleaning your roof is easy and fun. You'll need a high pressure water cleaner, and there's something strangely satisfying about blasting the moss and algae into oblivion. Please make sure that you are standing securely before turning on the water cleaner. It's also a good idea to spray no closer than 50cm to your roof, as any closer can damage the roofs surface. Bring a broom with you, since stubborn moss and algae might need a scrubbing before it fully disappears. The stockist from where you rent the water cleaner can also provide you with a specialist detergent that will clear algae from the nooks and crannies of your roof without corroding it.

3. Full Restoration

Full roof restoration can be a significant investment. If your roof is significantly damaged, then restoration might be your only option, but it also has significant aesthetic advantages, like a new hairstyle for your house. This can be beneficial if you're considering selling your home at some point in the future.

4. A Lick of Paint

A more cost-effective alternative to roof restoration is to simply paint the roof. This won't fix any underlying issues but can give your roof a new lease of life. Your roof must be cleaned first, and you'll need an airless spray gun to quickly and evenly distribute the paint. You will generally need to apply two coats. Be sure to choose a colour that suits your local environment, and if you're in a sunny part of the country, be aware that light colours will deflect the sun, which can also reduce your cooling bill. Of course, don't use an airless spray gun to paint your roof on a windy day, unless you want to have a backyard the same colour of your roof.

Roof restoration is the ultimate way to have a pristine roof, but it's not the only way. It's important to keep an eye on the roof over your head, since it's better to be aware of any issues now, rather than in the dark during a thunderstorm.


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