When inquiring about the longevity of their roof, customers of E.W. MacDowell Roofing often receive estimates that span a wide range—for instance, tile roofs may last between 10 to 50 years, while metal roofs can endure from 20 to 50 years. Understandably, one might question why the lifespan of roofs can vary so significantly. Factors such as climate, the quality of installation, and material choice all influence a roof’s durability. Yet, the aspect most within a homeowner’s control is diligent roof maintenance.
It’s simple: well-maintained roofs tend to last longer. This principle applies across all roofing materials, including metal, shingle, tile, or even solar panels. Maintaining your roof not only extends its life but also optimizes your investment.
Let’s delve into the specific maintenance recommendations for the most common roofing materials found in Florida.
In the unique climate of Florida, the proximity to saltwater significantly impacts the lifespan of metal roofs. Salt carried in the air can settle on the roof, accelerating corrosion. The solution? Regularly clean your metal roof with fresh water to wash away salt deposits, which helps in reducing corrosion and prolonging the roof’s life.
For homes situated less than 1500 feet from the ocean, a bi-annual rinse is advisable. Properties located between 1500 feet and 1 mile from the coast should aim for an annual rinse, while those situated more than a mile away can schedule a rinse every two years.
The granules on a shingle roof, which give it a rough texture, play a crucial role in protection. As these granules wear away, the roof becomes more susceptible to leaks. It’s vital to preserve these granules for as long as possible. Pressure washing, often used to remove algae, can unfortunately strip away these protective granules, doing more harm than good. E.W. MacDowell Roofing recommends softer cleaning methods to avoid granule loss.
Additionally, minimizing foot traffic on the roof is essential, as walking on shingles can also displace granules. For shingle roofs with metal flashing, periodic fresh water rinses can help stave off corrosion, thus extending the roof’s life.
Maintenance of tile roofs focuses on preventing tile breakage and avoiding corrosion of the metal flashing. Both damaged tiles and corroded flashing can lead to water infiltration beneath the tiles, eroding the waterproof barrier and leading to leaks. To protect your tile roof, ensure fresh water rinses are conducted at least every two years and limit roof traffic to prevent tile damage. Trimming tree branches that could potentially fall on the roof during storms is also a prudent measure.
E.W. MacDowell Roofing emphasizes the importance of routine maintenance to extend the lifespan of your roofing investment. Through consistent care, we help ensure that your roof remains robust and durable, safeguarding your home against the elements for years to come.
E.W. MacDowell Roofing emphasizes the importance of routine maintenance to extend the lifespan of your roofing investment. Through consistent care, we help ensure that your roof remains robust and durable, safeguarding your home against the elements for years to come.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Please feel free to contact us with any of your roofing questions. We look forward to working with you.