It can be difficult to keep up with all the maintenance a home requires, and it’s easy to overlook certain areas of the home. The most overlooked areas are those that are difficult to see, like the rain gutters and roof. However, ignoring the condition of these components can have serious consequences. Here’s why it’s important to have your rain gutters regularly cleaned and to hire professional roof cleaning services as well.
RAIN GUTTERS
Regular roof cleaning in Seattle will ensure that your rain gutters stay clean and clear. This is important because a backed-up rain gutter can allow water to leak into your home through the roof. It can also cause water to run down the side of the house, which can create ugly stains on your home’s exterior. In addition, the water will settle next to the home’s foundation, which puts your home at greater risk of settling and sustaining expensive foundation damage.
REDUCE HEAT ABSORPTION
The color of roof shingles on your home plays a large role in how “cool” your roof is. Lighter colors bounce more solar heat back out, which contributes to keeping your home cooler. In a similar manner, a dirty roof has more difficulty reflecting sunlight because algae growth and other dark stains will actually absorb the heat rather than reflecting it. Your cooling system will have to work harder to cool the home as the attic temperature rises, so cleaning the roof can help with your home’s energy efficiency as well.
ROOF HEALTH
Many homeowners don’t think much about the health of the roof, but replacing the roof is costly so it’s important to do all you can to extend its lifespan. Moss, algae, and lichens all feed on the organic material on the roof. You’re at a much higher risk of the roof deck getting wood rot when these organisms thrive on your roof. As the wood rots, moisture will seep deeper into the roof structure and eventually into your home, which means you’ll be dealing with water damage and potentially dangers from mold growth as well.
INSURANCE
Roof cleaning is strongly encouraged by insurance providers because of the increased risk of roof damage as well as water and mold damage from dirty roofs. It’s a good idea to check with your homeowners insurance to learn if they require roof cleaning. If it’s required and you don’t comply, you’re at risk of losing your policy.
MONEY SAVINGS
Keeping on top of roof cleaning can help you save substantially in the future. Moss, algae, and moss can damage asphalt shingles, and the cost of repairing and replacing those shingles can start to add up. But having your roof cleaned every 18 months or so can prevent this damage since a substance can be applied to prevent moss growth between these cleanings. In addition to saving in roof repair costs, you can prolong the time until you need to invest money into a new roof.
AESTHETICS
In addition to all the practical reasons for having your roof professionally cleaned, there are aesthetic considerations to think about as well. A clean roof not only makes your house look good, it shows that you take good care of your home as well. This is especially important if you plan to sell your house, because the curb appeal is greatly enhanced when your roof is free from stains and debris. Contact North Star Home Services today to schedule an appointment for roof cleaning.