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Unless you purchase a metal roof (known in some areas of the country as the "Forever Roof"), you will eventually have to replace your roof between 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials, weather, and area in which you live. Here's how to get every last year out of the roof of your Edina or Minnetonka home.

1. Choose the best materials. Many roofers can guide you through a "good, better, best" system of materials to show you the minimum quality you need, the better stuff to get you through most of your years in that house, and the best materials to get you the additional longevity with extended manufacturer warranties.

2. The quality of the workmanship. Choose a roofing company to install your shingles that has a reputation for excellent craftsmanship. Do this by checking reviews and references of roofing contractors. You can even ask for some former client addresses to drive by and check out to make sure the shingles still look in good shape (not curling or buckling).

3. Keep the gutters clean. This prevents water from backing up and damaging the deckboard, fascia, and soffit boards along the gutter line.

4. Remove debris from the roof, such as tree branches and leaves. Also, make sure overhanging trees near your roof are trimmed and healthy—in the event a large storm comes through, this can prevent branches from falling and damaging your roof.

5. Watch for ice dams that form in the winter. To help prevent them gently remove the snow from the roof three feet or so from the edge with a roof rake. If they form, hire a professional to remove them—many roofs are damaged in winter months when homeowners panic and take a hammer to their ice dam or hire someone untrained who damages the shingles.

6. Have the roof professionally inspected every five to six years, and have repairs made as needed.

7. Have your roof evaluated for proper ventilation in order to keep your attic at a proper temperature. A heated attic can penetrate insulation, raise the temperature of the attic air and "fry" your shingles, shorting their life.

8. Have your roof cleaned. Shaded houses have a tendency to grow mold or algae that feeds on the materials of the shingles, reducing their ability to direct water away from your house.