A roof that's maintained properly lasts 25-30 years. A neglected one needs replacement at 15-18 years. Most of the maintenance is simple observation -- but catching problems early is the entire game.
Annual ground-level inspection
Twice a year, walk the perimeter of your home and look up. You're looking for: missing shingles, shingles with visible curling or buckling, areas where granules have washed away (look darker), sagging sections, and debris accumulation in valleys. Binoculars help for steep roofs.
Attic inspection after rain
After a significant rain, check your attic with a flashlight. Look for: water stains on rafters or sheathing, daylight visible through the roof deck, wet or damp insulation, and dark spots that indicate mold. A single visit after a storm gives you more information than a visual inspection from the ground.
Keep gutters clear and attached
Gutters are part of your roof system. Clogged gutters push water back under the shingles -- one of the leading causes of roof rot and interior leaks. Clean gutters twice yearly and check that all hangers are secure. Sagging gutters collect standing water and pull away from the fascia.
Trim overhanging branches
Tree branches that touch or overhang the roof cause multiple problems: physical abrasion of shingles, debris accumulation that holds moisture, and a highway for squirrels and other pests to access the roof and attic. Keep branches trimmed at least 6 feet from the roof surface.
When to call a professional
Call a roofer for: any shingles that are curling, cracking, or missing, flashing that is visibly lifted or corroded, any area where you can see roof deck material, granule loss that exposes the mat, or a roof that's over 18 years old. Annual professional inspections cost $150-$300 and extend roof life.
Bottom line
A twice-yearly inspection, clean gutters, and trimmed trees are 90% of roof maintenance. The goal is to catch problems when they're $200 repairs, not $20,000 replacements.
Need roofing work done?
Novum sends its own licensed crew. Flat upfront quote before we touch anything.