A Guide to Roof Care in Austin, Texas

Asphalt shingles are among the most popular options for residential roofing. Since they are affordable and effective against the temperamental Texas weather, asphalt roofing has been a cost-effective way to cover your home from heavy weather damage for years. 

Many Austin, Texas homes use asphalt roofing for this durability and a traditional look for their roofs. When issues arise, repairing your asphalt roof is easy and straightforward. Often, most repair jobs only require a few shingles to be replaced rather than the entire roof, which keeps costs down.

Metal roofing is an ideal choice for homeowners who want a roof with less maintenance. Metal roofing absorbs heat better than other options, making them a great energy-efficient option for Texas roofs. Metal roofing is lighter than other roofing options and easier to install, which reduces the stress of added weight on your home. 

Metal roofing is known to be durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 70 years when properly maintained. The durability of metal roofing also allows it to withstand the extreme weather unpredictability in Texas.

Tile roofing is often considered to be a more sophisticated alternative to metal or asphalt shingles. The versatility and customizable options of tile roofing allow homeowners to find an aesthetic that fits their preferences, regardless of their home’s size or style of architecture. This can increase your home’s curb appeal, which could also increase your home’s market value.

While tile is a great aesthetic option, it can be more costly than asphalt shingles. However, tile offers thermal efficiency to keep your power bills low while also being fairly easy to repair and replace. Like asphalt roofing, damaged tiles can easily be exchanged and replaced to reduce maintenance expenses.

There can be many reasons why your roof begins to sag. If you are a first-time homeowner and notice your roof is sagging, this may be an indication that your roof is old and needs to be replaced. 

If a new roof is sagging, this could also be an indication of an improper installation, and it is a good idea to call a professional to inspect your roof to see if you are due for repair or replacement.

Over time, wear and tear on your rooftop can cause shingles to break or become loose. High winds, severe weather, and more can lead to missing or loose shingles. If left unrepaired, the damage increases over time and will need more care than if taken care of right away. 

Fixing loose or missing shingles immediately can save you money by preventing a complete roof replacement service. As soon as you see missing or broken shingles, contact a professional roofing contractor to provide you with quality roof care and repair. 

A damaged roof will leave you prone to weather elements affecting your home. When your roof is damaged, it can cause your heating and air conditioning to work harder to keep up with lost energy. Maintaining the internal temperature in your home can be difficult if you have a damaged roof. The more power needed to heat or cool your home during temperature changes, the higher the cost of your energy bills each month. If you notice your energy bills are higher than usual, it may be time for roof care.

Decreased roof efficiency means more internal moisture entering your home. If you notice water damage to the internal walls of your home, it may be a good idea to get a roof inspection to figure out how moisture is entering from the outside. This is also relevant for any mold or mildew damage in your attic area. 

Water damage is a telltale sign your roof could be leaking. If you prolong roof maintenance, it will cause even more damage to your roof and home.

Discoloration of your roof’s shingles is another indicator that moisture may have entered your roof. If you notice that your shingles are damp or darkened, it could be a sign of mold growing on your roof. The best way to prevent this is through proper roof care. 

Calling a professional roofing contractor to determine the cause of your discolored roof is the best way to determine if you need roof repair or replacement.

Inspecting your rooftop each season for any damage or missing shingles is essential. Texas weather can be unpredictable, and abrupt temperature changes and hail can cause severe storm damage to your roof. Looking at your shingles for excessive wear or damage can ensure that your home won’t experience moisture leaks or damage. Addressing any problems you see right away can help keep your roof fully functional during each season.

Removing debris on your roof is an essential step in roof care, especially after severe weather. Sticks, leaves, and tree branches can all damage your roof if left alone and can lead to severe problems such as clogged gutters, damaged shingles, and even leaks. 

Checking for and removing debris from your roof as soon as you notice it can save you money on roof repair and replacement in the long run. This can also include trimming any potentially hazardous tree branches that may be hanging over your roof.

Your gutters are essential to direct water and debris away from your roof and home. To ensure your gutters can do their job correctly, it is necessary to regularly check them for clogs and clean them out when you find any. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and spill over the edge of your roof, causing leaks and other water damage. Cleaning your gutters twice a year is the recommended schedule to keep them free and clear of debris.

If you have an excessive amount of moisture in your area or roof, treating for moss, lichen, and algae can prevent extensive damage and an unsightly appearance to your roof. During warmer months, moss, lichen, and algae can begin to grow in shady areas of your roof. This can cause more severe damage if left unchecked. You can remove these growths with a professional cleaning and then apply preventative products to ensure they will not grow back. 

Only a professional can tell you when you are due for roof repair or replacement. It is important to have your roof inspected annually to ensure that it is functioning correctly throughout each Texas season. Doing so can prevent damage from building up and breaking down your roof. During an inspection, a professional will examine your roof, look for any signs of wear and tear, and offer knowledgeable recommendations on roof repair and care.