Make a habit of roof maintenance

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by Owens Corning Canada

Roofing systems are remarkable. Season after season and for many years, roofs protect homes and structures from powerful, sustained and variable weather patterns, as well as changing environmental elements. They are a major investment, and like your car, your costly investment needs maintenance to perform its best. Make a habit, every fall or spring, to inspect and perform roof maintenance, so your roof can create a safe and comfortable environment inside for years and years to come.

Please remember that climbing and being on top of a roof can be very dangerous, so it is best to hire a reputable roofing company for your roofing inspections and maintenance.

Seasonal roof care – every spring or fall (or both)

1.Clean your gutters

When gutters become clogged, water can back up underneath the shingles and overflow onto your home’s siding or brick and cause damage that will worsen over time.

clogged gutters

Keep your gutters clean and free-flowing, and make sure they’re securely attached.

2.Clear off organic debris

Trees, while beautiful, are a constant source of debris. Organic matter resting on top of your roof can absorb water, causing the shingles to remain in contact with moisture for lengthy periods. Moisture against your shingles for a long period of time is not ideal.

gutters growing trees

3.Remove nearby tree branches

Trees can disturb roof granules when they rub against shingles, especially during windstorms. Have branches trimmed, so that even on the windiest of days, they don’t touch your roof or gutters.

tree branches over the gutters

4.Inspect flashing

Flashing helps ensure a water-tight seal in areas where two roof planes meet. For example, you might find flashing where your chimney or vent pipes emerge. Flashing is often placed in roof valleys – the channel created when two roof slopes converge.

Have your flashing inspected to determine if a repair or replacement is necessary. Signs that will require attention are:

  • Rust
  • Dents
  • Missing fasteners
  • Rotting or missing sealant
rotting flashing
bad bent flashing

5.Beware of ice dams (large or small)

Snow on the roof and cold temperatures could bring an increased risk of ice dams.

Ice daming

Ice dams form when snow on the roof melts (due to sun exposure or heat transfer from the roof deck), then trickles down your roof and refreezes over the eaves.

Ice dams can damage shingles, gutter systems, attic insulation and drywall. Left untreated, ice dams can even cause mould and mildew growth.


If your roof needs to be replaced, ask your roofing contractor about Duration® shingles with Surenail ® technology

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Learn more about Duration® shingles with Surenail ® technology

Signs your roof needs to be replaced

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