Here at AABCO Roofing, homeowners often ask us why they should take out a roof maintenance contract. So, we’ve decided to answer some of your burning tile roof maintenance questions, to help you understand how important maintaining your roof is.
Aren’t Tile Roofs Strong and Long-Lasting?
Technically, yes. Tile roofs are one of the strongest types of roofs on the market. They have been known to withstand extreme weather, such as high winds and hail, and can even survive certain fires. If they are installed in the right climate by a professional roofing company, tile roofs can last 25 years. Some manufacturers even provide 50-year warranties on properly installed tile only roofs.
But, tile roofs will not last forever, and they definitely won’t make it to 25 years if they are not properly maintained. Even the strongest roof can succumb to freak accidents or be unnecessarily damaged by tiny leaks. Because tile roofs are one of the most expensive roof types on the market, fixing or even replacing them is a costly affair. Rather than waiting for something bad to happen before calling a professional, it is best to hire someone to maintain your tile roof.
Why Shouldn’t I Maintain My Own Roof?
Most of the time, homeowners don’t see the top of their roofs until something goes wrong. Even then, your average person most likely will not step foot on to a roof in their lifetime. There are some people out there, however, that will try to maintain their roof themselves, without the help of a professional roofing company or contractor. Cleaning, or even just inspecting a roof might seem like a relatively easy job that anyone with a ladder can do. Here’s why it isn’t:
- It’s dangerous for you
Tiled roofs are not smooth or easy to walk on, particularly if they are at an angle. In fact, grabbing a ladder and climbing up onto your roof is a dangerous activity that should not be done lightly. By hiring a roofing company, you will never have to worry about putting yourself in danger when your roof needs maintenance. - It’s dangerous for your roof
Although tiled roofs are strong and durable, they are not indestructible. A misplaced step or accidental drop of heavy equipment can easily break or dislodge a perfectly stable tile. It’s very easy for you to cause more harm than good while trying to maintain your own roof. - You might miss something
If you manage to make it on to your roof safely without damaging anything, you still might not notice something is wrong. Tiled roofs are complex structures that do not always show signs of damage. It is very easy for the average homeowner to completely miss a small leak that could have disastrous consequences in the future.
How Will a Roof Company Maintain My Roof?
When you hire a roofing company to maintain your roof, a contractor will come through to make an initial assessment. Then more contractors will come at set times throughout the year to maintain your roof in the following ways:
- Inspection
Inspections are an integral part of roof maintenance. A contractor knows exactly what to look for, and will be able to spot the smallest hairline cracks or chips in your roof tiles. - Cleaning
Algae can start to grow on clay and concrete tiles in particular. Florida weather encourages the growth of mold and mildew, so keeping tiles clean ensures they remain strong throughout the year. - Debris Removal
If debris starts to build up in your gutters, it can cause blockages that redirect water onto your roof. After time, this accumulation of water can start to damage the roof. Keeping your roof and your gutters clean can be both difficult and dangerous, which is why hiring a professional is a far better solution than trying to DIY debris removal. - Repair
During routine check-ups, if your roofing contractor spots a problem he will be able to fix it before it gets out of hand. Cracked tiles, for example, can very easily be replaced before they start to become a safety hazard.
If you have any more questions about roof maintenance, do not hesitate to contact us. At AABCO Roofing we are more than happy to answer any of your roofing questions.
