Comprehensive Roofing Maintenance Guide
Roof Maintenance Information Hub
Your roof is a significant investment, shielding your home from the elements while maintaining structural integrity and curb appeal. Severe weather like storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, heat waves, and ice can wear down your roof over time. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, extend your roof’s lifespan, and avoid serious issues like structural and water damage.
This guide provides general maintenance tips and weather-specific strategies to keep your roof in top shape.
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General Roof Maintenance Tips
- Remove All Debris: Clear any leaves and branches from the roof and gutters to prevent drainage issues and moisture buildup.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for damaged or missing shingles, cracked flashing, and worn granules.
- Trim Trees: Keep overhanging branches away from the roof to avoid scratches, moss growth, or breakage during storms.
- Fall: Clear gutters to prevent ice dams.
- Winter: Insulate the attic and check for leaks from snow or ice.
- Spring: Inspect for damage from severe weather and remove moss or algae.
- Summer: Look for UV damage, such as cracked shingles or vent pipe wear.
- Schedule annual inspections to identify hidden issues, such as weakened flashing or minor leaks.
- Hire a professional roofing company for specialized roof repair services on metal, flat, or asphalt shingle roofs.
- Check for clogged gutters, aged shingles or missing granules on asphalt roofs, rust on metal roofs and algae growth.
- Look for water stains, mold, or peeling paint in the attic or interior.
- Ensure proper water drainage from the roof and away from walls.
- Address moss, algae, or musty odors promptly.
- Check that your vent pipes are debris-free.
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Benefits of Regular Roof Maintenance
Proper roof maintenance is essential to protect your home from bad weather, prevent costly roof repairs, and extend the lifespan of your roofing materials. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and proactive upkeep can help you avoid major issues and ensure your roof replacement isn’t needed sooner than expected.
- Cost Savings: Prevents expensive roof repair services by addressing small issues early.
- Longevity: Extends the life of your roof, regardless of roofing material.
- Interior Protection: Prevents water damage and mold growth inside your home.
- Beautiful Curb Appeal: Keeps your home looking attractive and valuable.
- Cost Savings: Prevents expensive roof repair services by addressing small issues early.
- Longevity: Extends the life of your roof, regardless of roofing material.
- Interior Protection: Prevents water damage and mold growth inside your home.
- Beautiful Curb Appeal: Keeps your home looking attractive and valuable.
Weather Specific Roof Maintenance
Proper roof maintenance is essential to protect your home from bad weather, prevent costly roof repairs, and extend the lifespan of your roofing materials. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and proactive upkeep can help you avoid major issues and ensure your roof replacement isn’t needed sooner than expected. Whether you’re dealing with heavy rain, high winds, or snow, preparing for different weather challenges is key to maintaining a strong and durable roof.
Ready to safeguard your home? Click below to explore expert-recommended, weather-specific roof maintenance strategies!
Storms can wreak havoc on your home, causing storm roof damage that ranges from minor issues like missing shingles to significant structural problems. Understanding the risks, recognizing the signs of storm damage, and addressing issues promptly are essential to maintaining your roof’s durability and protecting your home’s interior.
Common Signs of Storm Damage
After a storm, it’s crucial to inspect your home’s roof for visible damage. Some common signs include:
- Missing shingles: High winds and heavy rain often dislodge shingles, leaving vulnerable spots.
- Cracked shingles or shingle damage: Hail and debris can leave dents or cracks in asphalt shingles and other roofing materials.
- Loose granules: Look for missing shingle granules in your gutters or around your home’s exterior.
- Standing water: Pools of water on the roof’s surface indicate poor drainage, which can lead to water damage or ice dams.
- Fallen tree limbs and small branches: Debris can create holes or dents in your roof, requiring immediate attention.
- Sun damage or obvious damage: Over time, UV rays can weaken roofing systems, making them more susceptible to storm damage.
Steps to Address Storm Roof Damage
Visually Assess the Damage
- Safely examine the roof from the ground or use a ladder to inspect for visible signs of damage.
Take note of wet spots, cracked shingles, or damaged shingles to understand the extent of the roof storm damage.
Hire a Trusted Roofing Contractor
- A professional roofing contractor can perform a comprehensive roof inspection, detect both minor and severe damage, and provide expert repair recommendations.
- Seek contractors experienced in handling roof storm damage and storm damage repairs to ensure quality service.
File an Insurance Claim
- Document the damage with photos and written notes for your insurance company.
- Work with insurance adjusters to confirm the insurance company covers the cost of repairs or replacement.
Temporary Repairs
Until permanent repairs can be made, consider temporary repairs to prevent further damage. For example, use tarps to cover exposed areas of the roof’s surface.
Plan for Roof Replacement if Necessary
In cases of severe damage, such as a compromised roof deck, a new roof may be required. Materials like metal roofs or upgraded roofing materials can offer better protection for the future.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
Proper drainage: Ensure gutters are clear to reduce the risk of standing water or ice dams.
Regular inspections: Routine checks by a roofing company can catch potential problems early.
Upgrade roofing materials: Durable options like metal roofs or reinforced asphalt shingles withstand high winds and hail damage better.
Severe storms can wreak havoc on your roof, but timely action minimizes the risk of structural damage and keeps your home’s exterior secure. Always consult a professional roofing contractor to assess damage, file an insurance claim, and ensure your roof is repaired or replaced to withstand future severe weather.
Tornadoes bring extreme winds and debris, which can result in tornado roof damage that compromises your home’s safety. Understanding the impact of these storms and knowing how to address and prevent damage is essential for maintaining a durable and tornado-resistant roof.
Common Signs of Tornado Roof Damage
After a tornado, inspect your roof for obvious damage caused by high winds or debris. Look for:
- Missing shingles: Tornado winds can rip off asphalt shingles, leaving the roof deck exposed.
- Hail damage: Tornadoes often bring hail, which can dent or crack shingles and other roofing materials.
- Fallen debris: Flying debris like branches and storm debris can puncture your roof’s surface or cause structural damage.
- Wind-driven rain: Moisture seeping into cracks may result in water leaks and long-term damage.
- Loose roofing materials: Check for shifted metal panels, broken tiles, or detached shingles, which are clear signs of tornado damage.
- Roof uplift: Tornado winds create strong updrafts, which can lift sections of the roof or compromise its integrity.
Steps to Address Tornado Roof Damage
Inspect for Damage Safely: Examine your roof from the ground for significant damage, such as missing shingles, cracks, or dents. Use binoculars to check for smaller issues like loose granules or damaged tiles.
Consult Roofing Professionals: Call a professional roofing contractor to assess the damage. Experienced contractors will identify areas of tornado roof damage, recommend repairs, or suggest a roof replacement if necessary.
Document Damage for Insurance: Take photos of the tornado damage and make detailed notes. File an insurance claim process through your insurance company for repairs or replacement.
Temporary Repairs: Use tarps or patches to cover damaged areas and prevent secondary damage while awaiting professional repairs.
Repair or Replace: Replace damaged sections with wind-resistant materials, like metal roofs or stone-coated steel shingles, for enhanced durability.
Best Roofing Materials for Tornado Prone Areas
In tornado-prone regions, selecting the right materials is critical. The best options include:
Metal roofs: Renowned for their wind resistance, these are highly durable against tornado winds.
Stone-coated steel shingles: These provide a balance of aesthetics and superior wind resistance.
Concrete tiles: Known for their weight and durability, they withstand high-speed winds and flying debris.
Hip roofs: These have a sloped design that reduces wind uplift compared to flat or gable roofs.
Preventing Future Tornado Damage
Interlocking technology: Choose roofing systems with interlocking panels for ultimate wind resistance.
Extra waterproof underlayment: Helps to protect against wind-driven rain.
Corrosion-resistant fasteners: Use screws and clips that hold firmly during extreme winds.
Professional inspections: Schedule regular checks by roofing experts to ensure your roof remains structurally sound.
Tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage to roofs, but proper preparation and timely action can minimize risks. Always work with a trusted roofing contractor to assess and repair tornado roof damage, ensuring your home’s roof is equipped to withstand future severe weather.
Hurricanes are among the most destructive storms, causing intense winds, rain, and flying debris. Hurricane roof damage can lead to severe structural issues if left untreated. Proper preparation and choosing the right materials can help protect your roof during the hurricane season.
Common Signs of Hurricane Roof Damage
After a hurricane, inspect your roof for these obvious damage indicators:
- Missing shingles: Hurricane-force winds can rip off asphalt shingles, exposing the roof deck to further damage.
- Cracked or broken roofing materials: Clay tiles, wood shingles, or metal roofing may show cracks or dents due to flying debris.
- Water intrusion: Wind-driven rain often seeps into cracks, causing roof leaks and damage to the interior.
- Loose or missing roof components: Ridge caps, flashing, and gutters are particularly vulnerable during major hurricanes.
- Structural damage: Hurricane-prone areas often experience high wind loads, which can compromise the roof’s stability.
Steps to Address Hurricane Roof Damage
- Inspect for Damage Safely: Use binoculars to examine your roof from the ground. Look for missing shingles, cracks, or detached roofing elements. Avoid climbing the roof immediately after a hurricane, as it may not be structurally sound.
- Contact Roofing Professionals: Hire a professional roofing contractor to assess the damage and provide recommendations. They will identify hurricane roof damage and suggest repairs or a roof replacement if necessary.
- File an Insurance Claim: Document the damage with photographs and detailed notes. Work with your insurance company to process the claim for necessary repairs or replacements.
- Temporary Repairs: Use tarps or temporary sealants to cover damaged areas and prevent water intrusion while awaiting professional repairs.
- Repair or Replace: Replace damaged sections with hurricane-resistant materials, such as metal roofs or concrete tiles.
Best Roofing Materials for Hurricane-Prone Areas
In regions frequently hit by hurricanes, using durable materials is essential:
- Metal roofs: Known for their wind resistance and ability to withstand hurricane-force winds.
- Concrete or clay tiles: These materials are heavy and offer superior protection against high winds and flying debris.
- Asphalt shingles: Choose impact-resistant varieties for better durability in hurricane-prone regions.
- Hip roofs: Their aerodynamic design reduces wind uplift compared to traditional gable roofs.
Preventing Future Hurricane Roof Damage
- Hurricane straps: Reinforce your roof with hurricane straps to secure it to the building’s structure.
- Additional underlayment: A waterproof layer beneath the roofing material protects against wind-driven rain.
- Regular inspections: Schedule professional roof checks to ensure it is ready for the hurricane season.
- Roof shape and slope: Opt for roofs with sloped designs to reduce wind pressure.
Hurricanes can wreak havoc on homes, but proper preparation can minimize hurricane roof damage. Investing in hurricane-proof roofs and working with roofing professionals ensures your roof is ready to face the challenges of severe weather.
Heat waves, characterized by extreme heat and prolonged periods of high temperatures, can significantly affect your home’s roof. The intense sun exposure during these events can lead to roof sun damage and degrade various roofing materials over time.
Thermal Shock: Rapid temperature fluctuations between day and night can cause materials, like asphalt shingles, to expand and contract, leading to cracks and splits.
UV Ray Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure weakens roof shingles, leading to a brittle structure that is prone to damage.
Heat Damage: Extreme temperatures can cause metal components on your roof to warp or weaken.
Roof Leaks: Hot weather can exacerbate roof leaks by further compromising existing vulnerabilities.
Common Signs of Heat Wave Damage
Identifying damage early can prevent costly repairs or even a full roof replacement:
Discolored or Faded Shingles: Prolonged UV rays may bleach or discolor shingles.
Cracked or Warped Shingles: Heat damage often causes visible cracking.
Loose Materials: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause roofing materials to detach.
Roof Repairs Needed: Recurring roof repairs for the same issue may indicate underlying heat wave damage.
Common Signs of Heat Wave Damage
Identifying damage early can prevent costly repairs or even a full roof replacement:
Discolored or Faded Shingles: Prolonged UV rays may bleach or discolor shingles.
Cracked or Warped Shingles: Heat damage often causes visible cracking.
Loose Materials: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause roofing materials to detach.
Roof Repairs Needed: Recurring roof repairs for the same issue may indicate underlying heat wave damage.
Preventive Measures
Preventing damage during heat waves requires proactive steps to ensure your roof withstands hot weather:
Regular Inspections: Engage a professional roofer to inspect your home’s roof for early signs of sun damage.
Proper Ventilation: Installing adequate ventilation helps regulate attic temperatures, preventing extreme heat buildup.
Reflective Coatings: Reflective materials can reduce heat absorption, keeping your roof cooler during hot days.
Shingle Alternatives: Metal or tile roofs are better equipped to handle excessive heat compared to traditional asphalt shingles.
Planting Trees: Strategically placed trees can provide natural shade, reducing sun exposure.
How to Address Heat Damage
If your roof experiences heat damage, addressing the issue promptly is essential:
Hire Roofing Experts: A trusted roofing company can assess and repair roof damage effectively.
Replace Compromised Materials: Roofing materials like shingles or flashing that have been damaged should be replaced promptly.
Consider a New Roof: If the heat waves have caused significant damage, investing in a roof replacement may provide long-term benefits.
Inspect Insulation: Ensure the attic is properly insulated to prevent heat loss and minimize roof degradation.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
With increasing instances of climate change, heat waves are becoming more common, necessitating robust roofing materials and proactive care:
Extends your roof’s lifespan by addressing the negative impacts of extreme heat.
Saves money by avoiding the high costs of recurring roof repairs or replacements.
Protects vulnerable populations, such as older adults, from heat-related illnesses caused by poor indoor temperature control.
Maintaining your roof during the summer months is crucial to preserving its structural integrity. Preventing heat wave damage not only protects your roof but also ensures a cooler, safer home during the most intense hot weather events.
Winter brings specific challenges to homeowners, especially in areas prone to heavy snow and freezing conditions. Ice roof damage is a common issue, often caused by ice dams—a buildup of ice along the edges of a roof that prevents melting snow from draining properly.
Ice Dams: These form when melting snow refreezes at the colder edges of the roof, leading to ice dam formation that traps water behind it.
Roof Surface Damage: Ice can crack shingles and deteriorate roofing materials, compromising the roof’s protective barrier.
Structural Concerns: The weight of accumulated snow and ice can strain the roof deck, causing significant damage if left untreated.
Signs of Ice Damage
It’s vital to recognize the signs of ice roof damage to prevent further complications:
Sagging Ceilings: Indication of water intrusion caused by ice dam damage.
Water Stains or Leaks: Melted water from ice dams can seep into attic spaces and interior walls.
Warped Floors or Walls: Persistent water exposure due to poor drainage from roof ice dams.
Excessive Icicles: A sign of poor insulation and potential roof damage.
Preventive Measures for Ice Damage
Taking preventive actions before winter can help mitigate the risks associated with ice dams and other ice-related issues:
Ensure Proper Attic Insulation: Insulating your attic floor helps maintain a consistent temperature on your roof, reducing the risk of melting snow refreezing.
Roof Ventilation: Adequate roof ventilation, such as soffit vents, prevents warm air from rising and melting snow unevenly.
Remove Snow: Use a roof rake to safely clear snow from your roof, reducing the weight and preventing ice formation.
Seal Air Leaks: Eliminate sources of moist air entering the attic to avoid heat buildup.
Install Ice Shields: Protective barriers installed under shingles can minimize ice dam damage.
What to Do When Ice Damage Occurs
Despite preventive measures, ice dams and roof damage can still occur. Addressing the issue promptly can prevent long-term consequences:
Call Roofing Experts: A trusted roofing company like Robbins Roofing can assess and repair ice roof damage efficiently.
Remove Ice Dams Safely: Professionals use tools like ice melt and heated equipment to dissolve ice dams without harming the roof.
Repair Roofing Materials: Replace any damaged shingles or other compromised roofing materials.
Inspect Gutters: Clear debris from gutters to ensure melted water flows freely away from the house.
Long-Term Solutions
Protecting your roof from ice damage involves investing in durable materials and ongoing maintenance:
Install Heated Cables: These cables help prevent ice dams by maintaining a consistent temperature along your roof’s edge.
Add Insulation: Increasing insulation in the attic and sealing air leaks can prevent heat loss, reducing the risk of ice dam formation.
Professional Roof Inspection: Schedule regular inspections with roofing experts to identify vulnerabilities and reinforce your roof against future winters.
Why Ice Damage Matters
Ice roof damage, if left untreated, can lead to costly repairs and compromise your home’s structural integrity:
Water Damage: Seepage caused by ice dams can damage walls, ceilings, and insulation.
Roof Replacement Costs: Extensive damage may require a complete roof replacement.
Winter Safety: Addressing issues promptly ensures your home remains safe and comfortable throughout the winter season.
Winter strikes with challenges, but by taking proactive steps, homeowners can protect their roofs from the harmful effects of ice dams and other winter hazards, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the season.
Our Reviews
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic company, worked with me every step of the way. Professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. Larry and Colby were a pleasure to work with. Bobby Legates2022-06-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Larry is fantastic with the claims adjusters. He got me more money from the insurance company than I thought possible. Also his concern for getting everything done perfectly was a great benefit. Steve Kaplan2022-04-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am posting this in March 2022. After a huge hailstorm in April 2020, our insurance company decided they did not want to pay for a new roof on our house, in spite of lots of roof damage and most of our neighbors getting new roofs after that storm. Robbins Roofing was the third roofing company to work with us, the only one that was willing to stick it out while we waited (and are still waiting) for the insurance company to pay the full replacement cost. We have had to go through a public adjuster and then an attorney. During that time, Robbins Roofing replaced individual shingles as wind and more hail damaged them. Larry Robbins checked in with us on a regular basis to see how our claim was going. He provided all the information the public adjuster and attorney have needed throughout their process. Finally after nearly 2 years, we decided that we could not wait any longer to replace our roof, so we contacted Larry Robbins to get it set up. Within two weeks, we had a new roof. The workers were professional, polite, and kept things clean. They put tarps down around the house as they pulled off the old roof. On the first day, I forgot to pull my vehicle out of the garage ahead of time to go to work. They stopped the work on that side of the house for a few minutes, pulled the tarps away, checked for nails, and then cleared the way for me to get out of the driveway. The new roof looks fantastic! We could not be happier! We hope we do not need to get a new roof again any time soon, but if we do, we will go with Robbins Roofing. Very highly recommended. M2022-03-13Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely top notch company. Larry personally came out to talk to me and help me through the claim process. He and his team them made the needed repairs quickly and at a great price. I couldn’t be happier. Thank you!! Brett Simms2022-01-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After my father’s roof sustained damage from the OKC ice storm in late 2020 he called Larry Robbins on the recommendation of the retired roofer who had done all his roof repairs for 27 years. Larry came out promptly and inspected the roof, and recommended full replacement of this very odd and unique roof that had never been replaced since it’s installation in 1978. The shingles were concrete tiles that were no longer available, and between the many cracked tiles and roof deck damage, replacement was inevitable. Unfortunately my father passed away before the arrangements were made, and a few months later my family was in the house when a week of heavy rains hit and leaks appeared in about a dozen places in the house. I called Robbins on a Sunday and left a message, they called back Monday morning, and Larry came to the house a couple of days later to see what he could do and we agreed to go ahead with the roof replacement. A couple of hours later Tanner came out to put tarps over the leaking spots and within days we had a contract and a start date. It was a very big job because of the size of the roof and the weight of the tiles that were being removed, but Larry put two crews on the job and found as many dumpsters as possible, and the job that was projected to take a week took only 3 days. Tanner and his crew were great, they cleaned up beautifully, and we now have a secure roof, ten new leakproof skylights, and new gutters as of last Friday. We really appreciated Larry’s kindness about my father’s passing and his concern that things be done right as quickly as possible. We have had a very good experience with Larry and the Robbins Roofing team from start to finish. Eric H2021-10-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would just like to commend Robbins roofing for an awesome job they did on our roof replacing it after a hail storm in February of this year in Norman Oklahoma. I had five or six other companies come out. Some of the companies were from out of state or from very far distances. We gave them a call they showed up on time they gave us a complete analysis of the damage that was done and they even worked with our insurance company and took care of all the paperwork and everything with that and coordinated all of that. It is a lot to deal with when you are a homeowner. Thankfully Eric P came out gave us an estimate did everything he said he was going to do he was very honest and coordinated everything scheduled a time when they could do it with his crew they did it all in one day and we were very pleased and happy with the job that they did we would highly recommend them to anyone we would like to thank him and his crew of people for a wonderful job well done. Russel and Lana S. Lana Schrotenboer2021-09-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Team from Robbins Roofing met all my expectations...from the initial roof inspection thru the collaboration with my insurer. I had a high level of confidence in Larry's ability to manage the entire process. Once his team (2 full crews to start) arrived at my home the work never slowed down! The project manager, Tanner, was on-site and in control but more importantly to me, he kept me in the loop throughout the project and answered every question I had about the materials and methods being used. I found the entire experience with Robbins' team members to be low stress and professional and I highly recommend them now to my friends, neighbors and clients! Thank You Larry Robbins and Team! Joel Maxwell2021-09-07
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Robbins Roofing is a trusted roofing contractor in Oklahoma, providing top-quality roofing services to homeowners in Mustang and beyond. Whether you need a roof inspection, shingle or metal roofing, clay or tile roofing, or even gutter installation, our family-owned and operated business is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship at a fair price. With years of experience, we take pride in helping homeowners protect their investments with durable, reliable roofing solutions.
Get a free consultation to help you find the perfect roof for your home. Contact Robbins Roofing today at (405) 376-4466 to schedule your appointment!