By Tom Bailey, Owner of Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors
Hello, Calgary homeowners! Tom Bailey here, owner of Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors. I’ve been working with roofs in this city for many years, and one thing I know for sure is that a well-maintained roof can make a huge difference to your home’s longevity and overall protection. In Calgary, with our unpredictable weather, from heavy snow to intense summer heat, your roof faces constant challenges.
That’s why I want to take a moment to share some simple but effective ways you can extend the lifespan of your shingle roof. Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, and by following these tips, you can save money on costly repairs or replacements while also enhancing your home’s overall energy efficiency.
Let’s dive into five key ways to give your roof the care it deserves and keep it in top shape for years to come!
One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your roof is to have it regularly inspected. Roofs, especially those made of shingles, can experience wear and tear over time, and many issues can go unnoticed until they become serious problems.
We recommend scheduling a roof inspection at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall. After a harsh winter or an intense summer, your roof may have taken a beating from Calgary’s extreme weather. A professional roofing contractor, like those at Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors, will be able to identify small issues such as missing shingles, cracked seals, or areas where debris might be accumulating—things that could turn into bigger problems if left unchecked.
You might be surprised to hear this, but your gutters play a big role in the health of your roof. When gutters get clogged with leaves, twigs, or other debris, it prevents rainwater from flowing properly. This trapped water can then pool on your roof, causing shingles to deteriorate more quickly and even leading to leaks or water damage inside your home.
Make it a habit to clean your gutters at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. If you live in an area with lots of trees, you may need to do this more often. Clearing your gutters will ensure that water can flow freely off your roof, preventing moisture buildup and protecting the integrity of your shingles.
In Calgary, trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but when their branches hang too close to your roof, they can cause some serious issues. Overhanging branches can scrape against shingles, causing them to loosen, crack, or wear out prematurely. Not to mention, falling branches during a storm can cause significant damage.
Trim any tree branches that are close to your roof, especially if they’re low-hanging or close to your chimney. Keeping trees in check will reduce the chances of physical damage, while also minimizing the amount of debris that ends up in your gutters.
If you’ve noticed moss or algae growing on your roof, it’s time to take action. While moss and algae growth may seem harmless at first, they can actually cause significant damage to your shingles over time. Moss holds moisture against the roof surface, which can cause the shingles to deteriorate, leading to leaks and even structural issues.
In Calgary, our fluctuating temperatures can encourage moss and algae growth, especially in areas that don’t get much sunlight. If you spot any, it’s best to have it professionally removed. At Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors, we use safe and effective methods to clean roofs and prevent future growth. You can also consider applying a moss-resistant treatment to protect your roof after cleaning.
Proper ventilation and insulation play a major role in your roof’s overall health. Without adequate ventilation in your attic, heat and moisture can build up, leading to a host of problems such as premature aging of your shingles, ice dams in the winter, and even mold growth.
Make sure your attic is well-ventilated to allow air to circulate freely. This can help prevent excessive heat buildup, which can cause shingles to dry out and crack. Additionally, proper insulation in your attic will help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the chances of moisture buildup.
If you’re unsure about the ventilation or insulation in your attic, it’s always a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor assess it. At Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors, we can help ensure your attic is set up for maximum airflow and efficiency, contributing to a longer roof lifespan.
Maintaining your shingle roof doesn’t have to be a hassle. By implementing these five simple steps—regular inspections, cleaning your gutters, trimming overhanging branches, addressing moss and algae growth, and ensuring proper ventilation and insulation—you can help extend the life of your roof and keep it in top shape for many years to come.
If you ever have any questions or need professional help with roof inspections or maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors. We’re here to help you protect your home and give you peace of mind. We pride ourselves on providing honest, reliable, and professional roofing services for Calgary homeowners.
Stay safe and take care of your roof—it’s your first line of defense against the elements!
Best regards,
Tom Bailey
Owner, Cowboys Roofing & Exteriors