Despite roofing being designed for longevity, you should bear in mind that the lifespan will vary from one material to another. Homeowners will typically be concerned about how the exposure to the elements will gradually deteriorate their roofing, but this is not the only matter endangering this structure. Some other risks could prematurely degrade the roof if they are not addressed from the onset. Below are a few of the other top threats to the integrity of your roofing that you should be wary of.
The growth of moss
Moss is one of the primary concerns you should have when it comes to the wellbeing of your roof. This plant may seem harmless with its soft texture, but its growth will imply there is a significant amount of moisture being trapped on your rooftop to sustain it. Moreover, the moss has a propensity to soak up the moisture that is available to it, which significantly increases the chances of water damage to your roofing. If the growth of moss is not stopped in its tracks, it could lead to the softening of the roof materials, which would cause the roof to crumble and deteriorate prematurely.
Luckily, there is a host of chemical treatments that can be applied to your roofing to get rid of the tufts of moss that are growing. Additionally, you can have your roofer install specialised strips of copper or zinc that work to prevent any growth of moss. Algae is another plant-like material that you should be worried about on the surface of your roof. Routine cleaning with chlorinated detergent should keep the formation of algae at bay.
The presence of ice
During the colder seasons, it will be difficult to prevent snow from falling on your roof. Nevertheless, this does not mean that you should leave the snow to settle on your roof. If the snow is not eliminated, it steadily hardens into ice, and this poses an increased risk of water damage to your roof. The undisturbed ice can also begin to form icicles on your gutters, which add extra weight to your roof.
If not addressed, the icicles can cause your gutters to pull away from the roofing, and this may make you have to resort to gutter replacement. It is, therefore, prudent to engage in roof maintenance particularly during the winter to ensure that snow is cleared from your roof regularly. You should also take note to break off icicles from your gutters as soon as you notice them forming.
For more information about gutter maintenance, talk to contractors like ACT Gutter Service.
