Your home's roof is one of its most protective features. To protect it, every homeowner should develop a few good habits that will prevent damage. What are some of these good habits, and what do they protect against? Here are some answers. 

1. Don't Ignore Debris.

If something falls on your roof, it should be removed as soon as feasible. The more that debris like branches and limbs, toys, rocks, or animal carcasses sit on the roof, the more likely it is that they will cause damage to shingles and weatherstripping. Decay and deterioration set in, and heavy objects can cut shingles or leave holes. 

2. Do Clean Gutters.

Gutters are part of the roof's protective system, so they need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Clogged gutters cause bad water drainage and buildup of debris near or on the roof edges. And when water backs up, it can be pushed or stagnate under shingles and in crevices. Water buildup in winter increases the risk of ice dams which can cause significant damage both on top of and underneath the roof. 

3. Don't Puncture the Roof.

Do you hang items from your roof edges? Holiday decorations and sports equipment are some of the most common things a homeowner might hang from gables, eaves, and support beams. But the more holes you puncture in the structure, the more ways water, mold, and dirt can get inside where they don't belong. 

4. Do Work With Pros.

Do-it-yourself jobs on the roof can possibly make things worse. Improper installation of DIY solar panels, for instance, can damage shingles and framing materials. They also may not be properly weighted for the roof to support. And even a well-intentioned homeowner is unlikely to know the best practices of making minor repairs. The best way to get those DIY jobs done without damage is to consult with professionals first. 

5. Don't Power Wash It.

Power washing seems like a relatively harmless way to clean the house's exterior. But these hurricane-level jets of water can also scour off healthy parts of the roof, such as granules that protect an asphalt roof. Powerful water sprays can exacerbate small defects or minor damage until it becomes a dangerous problem. 

As you change the way you manage your roof — by avoiding outright damage from water and decorations as well as proactively keeping it clean — you can protect your investment. Want more tips? Start by meeting with a roofing service in your area today.