Why Roof Maintenance is Key to Keeping Pests Out of Your Home

The roof on your home is designed to protect you and your investment from the elements. In addition to keeping the rain, snow, and ice away from your interior space, roofs also help keep pests at bay. If you’ve noticed a pest problem in your home lately, the answer might be right above your head.

How Pests Get In

As your roof ages or becomes damaged, cracks and gaps appear. The type of pests that you may have to deal with will depend on the size of the access points. Small gaps can lead to ants and spiders coming in. Large holes allow mice and even bats to come in and get cozy. After all, they like dry, warm spaces, too. Replacing loose shingles or roofing can help keep pests out of your home. If you have nearby trees or branches that are hanging near your roof, these should be trimmed back to prevent pests from using these as a bridge into your home. If your home is in need of roof maintenance, it’s a good idea to get this done as soon as you notice a problem to prevent pests from getting too comfortable in your home — although calling an exterminator to check things out afterward is a good idea.

How to Spot the Damage

You don’t have to climb up on your roof in order to see if there is damage that needs to be addressed — and for your safety, it’s best not to. Instead, you can usually get a good view of your roof from your yard. See if you can find some shingles that look like they’re curling or ripped. Look for spots where shingles are missing. You should also check your gutters and downspouts for any damage that could result in water pooling up around your foundation, as that can cause significant problems as well.

When to Replace Your Roof

If your roof is beyond salvage, it’s time for replacement. Here are the signs to look out for:

• Lots of shingles are curling or cupped
• Lots of bald spots
• Lots of cracked shingles
• Sagging

If your neighbors are getting their roofs replaced, that’s also a good sign that yours probably needs replacement, as homes in the same neighborhood are often built around the same time.

There are several different roofing materials to consider, and each have their pros and cons. The good news is that anything will be better than your old roof at keeping the elements and pests from entering your home. One material that is rising in popularity lately is steel. Steel roofs are a great investment because they last for up to 50 years. That’s decades longer than your average roof made of shingles. You can also customize the look of your home by choosing a colored steel roof that compliments things like your front door or shutters.

Once installed properly, a good roof should need little to no real maintenance, and even repairs should not be common. It’s imperative that you use a reputable contractor for any roof maintenance or repairs that you need for your home. Not all contractors are created equal. You need a professional that will be able to spot roofing problems before they develop. It’s also beneficial if they can spot a pest issue before it becomes an infestation.