Posted June 10, 2025 | Anderson Roofing
You’ve just invested in a new roof. You’re hoping it will last at least as long as the manufacturer says it will, but there’s nothing you can do about it, right? Once the roofing crew has finished the installation, you can check that off your list. Unfortunately, even with a new roof, that’s just not true. Your roof isn’t a “set it and forget it” structure in your home. To keep your roof healthy throughout the years there are some roof maintenance tasks you’ll need to keep up on.
You’ve probably heard that a typical shingled roof lasts anywhere from 15 to 25 years. That’s a wide range—and it all depends on how the roof is treated over time. Let’s say you’ve invested in quality materials and hired a trustworthy crew for installation. Naturally, you want your roof to reach the 25-year mark, not fall short at 15.
So how do you extend its lifespan? Simple: maintenance.
Neglect it, and you’re cutting years off its life. Dirt, debris, and algae can quickly wear down your shingles. And once that protective layer starts to break down, water damage isn’t far behind.
A minor issue can be easy to live with. But minor issues don’t stay minor. If you ignore a minor roof issue, it won’t go away. A tiny leak can quickly spread moisture throughout your home, causing damage to insulation, wood, and even drywall. Water damage is the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow and spread, causing additional structural damage as well as posing a major health risk. Roof neglect can also have a significant impact on your energy costs, as a poorly maintained roof will not be efficient at regulating temperature.
You have homeowner’s insurance for a reason. If your roof is damaged due to a storm, a tree or branch falling, or fire, you should be covered. However, homeowner’s insurance is a contract where you are expected to keep up your end, and most policies explicitly state that your home needs to be well-maintained to be eligible for coverage.
Buyers will be hesitant to buy a home that’s going to need a new roof right away. Very few home buyers want to tackle a major project immediately after moving in. While the age of your roof matters, the condition and appearance matters as well. If you are planning to list your home, take a look at it through the eyes of a homebuyer. If you were considering buying your house, what would you think of the roof? Simply put, old and poorly maintained roofs don’t sell well. It’s not worth getting a low offer or no offer at all on your home because of the roof.
Even though roof maintenance is important, that doesn’t mean that it’s complicated. Roof maintenance tasks are simple to keep up with. Basic roof maintenance includes:
Remove tree branches and other debris to prevent premature shingle breakdown and subsequent water damage.
Keeping your gutters clean is vital to a healthy roof. You need to make sure all water is draining properly. Spring and fall gutter cleaning is adequate for most homes and is easy to do on your own, although there are many gutter cleaning services that are very affordable.
If your roof is dirty, streaked, or beginning to grow patches of algae, it should be cleaned. There are several cleaning solutions that are safe and environmentally friendly. However, you do need to be careful. Pressure washing without knowing the right pressure to use can damage the shingles. There are brushes designed for cleaning roofs with soft washing techniques. If you are uncertain about the best way to clean your roof without damaging it, you can hire a professional.
This is a good idea to do at least once a year.
If you see any signs of water in your home, such as staining on walls or ceilings, make sure you address those issues right away. If you don’t see any obvious signs of leaks, make sure to check the attic twice a year for any signs of poor ventilation that may indicate blocked vents.
If you aren’t comfortable clearing debris yourself or aren’t sure what damaged flashing or shingles might look like, call Anderson Roofing for a roof inspection and basic roof maintenance.
Investing a little bit of time can save you a lot of stress and money later. When you make the effort to maintain your roof, you are protecting the value of your home, keeping your family safe and secure, and ensuring that you get the maximum lifespan from your roof.
A new roof is a major investment—but like any investment, it needs attention to deliver long-term value. Skipping regular maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, lost resale value, and even risks to your family’s health and safety. Anderson Roofing is here to help you protect your roof and your home with skilled craftsmanship and high quality materials. Don’t leave your roof’s lifespan to chance. Call now to schedule an inspection or maintenance visit.
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