Shingles, Nails, and Beyond

It is common to see asphalt shingle roofing on residential properties today. They're not that expensive in comparison to other materials and they come in a variety of colors. If this material is on your property, then you'll want to take these maintenance steps on a consistent basis. 

Clean Regularly

Even though asphalt shingles are meant to be outside and exposed to different weather elements, it's still important that you clean them whenever you have some free time. If you fail to do this, then there is a greater probability of their condition breaking down sooner than they should.

Cleaning asphalt shingles can be potentially dangerous because of the height involved, so you're probably better off hiring a roofing contractor. They can use specialized wands that administer water with a lot of power. This pressurized water can remove dirt, debris, algae, and other residues that built up with time.

Watch Out for Trees

Trees that hang over your roof may be great from a curb appeal standpoint, but they can cause damage to asphalt shingles pretty quickly. This is especially true when the wind picks up.

You can do your part to protect asphalt shingles before damage occurs by physically removing branches that are just above your roof. When the wind gets a little stronger, there will be nothing to scrape against the asphalt shingles and cause severe damage.

Just be careful when cutting large branches. Use the right tools and have someone help you grab the branches once they're cut to keep your roof in great shape.

Look for Damage Often

Asphalt shingles are pretty durable, but like most other roofing materials, they are not indestructible. There will be a point when damage happens and it's up to you as a homeowner to identify this damage as quickly as possible.

You can then have a professional or yourself address it before you're left with premium repair costs. Stay mindful of curled shingles, chipped shingles, and shingles that have come off your roof completely. Fixing these sorts of issues will help your asphalt shingle roof hold up for as long as possible and keep other structures in great shape.

When homeowners get new roofs, they often choose asphalt shingles as their preferred material choice. If you did the same and this material is on your roof currently, take plenty of time to care for it appropriately over the years. You then won't have to tremble in fear about repair costs.