One of the most important parts of a home that should be kept in good condition is the roof. The best way to stay on top of roof maintenance is to perform an inspection. Should you hire someone to inspect your roof or should you do it yourself? The answer is: both, but at different levels.
Why Your Roof Should Be Inspected
Roof inspections simply determine the integrity of a roof, how long it may last, if it needs repairs and when it will need to be replaced. Roof inspectors have special procedures wherein they can determine the lifespan of a given roof without ripping it apart.
Roof inspections are important because they help prevent major problems from occurring. If roof inspections aren’t regularly performed, serious problems can develop, leading to leaks and damage to the interior of your home or business.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends checking your roof at least twice a year, in the fall and spring when the weather is milder to catch any problems. A roof should also be inspected after a major weather event.
DIY: What Do You Inspect on a Roof
Periodically inspecting your roof allows you to acquaint yourself with the structural elements so you’ll be able to recognize problems before they get worse. You can begin your roof inspection from the ground with the help of binoculars.
From the ground or in the attic, here is what you should look for:
- Patches of moss, algae, and lichen. If present, they need to be removed immediately due to trapped moisture which can lead to mold and a decaying roof.
- Tree branches, piles of leaves or other large debris
- Loose, cracked, or rusted gutters. Also check to see if granules, that come from the surface of asphalt shingles, are in your gutters. If there are a lot of granules, you could have shingle damage.
- Broken, curling or missing shingles. Water can seep through your roof when shingles are damaged.
- Cracked or curling caulk or sealant
- Worn, peeling or cracked plastic rubber boots around pipes or other roof projections
- Cracked or rusted spots on the metal pieces around chimneys and vent pipes, also known as flashings. Damaged or corroded flashings can let water into the interior structure of your roof. This can cause rotting to the roof and walls of your home.
- A damaged or missing chimney cap
- Crumbling or missing chimney mortar
- Signs of moisture in the rafters and attic. Checking your attic for signs of water leakage can help you spot damage that may not have been visible from the ground.
After walking around your home, you may want to further inspect the roof using a ladder. However, take caution when doing so. If you have a home that is two or more stories, risk of injury increases. You may want to have a professional climb that ladder instead.
A Professional Roof Inspection
If your self-inspection reveals problems that can be solved easily such as removing debris, nailing down loose shingles, or unclogging gutters, then you may be able to take care of it yourself. However, if you don’t want to climb that ladder, you notice many missing shingles, the flashings are cracked, or maybe you are thinking about installing solar panels, then it is best to call a professional roofing company to check your roof and attic.
Many roofing companies offer free or low-cost inspections. An experienced roofing professional will be able to spot problems that you may not recognize. A professional can give you an accurate assessment of the condition of your roof. Here’s what to expect from an inspection performed by a roofing professional.
Full Interior Roof Inspection
A roofing specialist will check your attic and ceilings for:
- Proper insulation
- Ventilation
- Moisture and mold
Full Exterior Inspection
The roofing professional walk on your roof to assess its condition and advise the homeowner on any issues, such as:
- Leaks
- Ice dams
- Condition of roof shingles
- Proper flashing of dormers, valleys, sidewalls, eaves, and rakes
- Chimney work and gutters
Repair or Replacement
The professional roofer will create a written assessment of your roof. It will include a recommended plan of action to address any immediate concerns, as well as itemized repairs needed. An estimate for making those repairs will also be provided.
Trust the Local Professional Roofers
If you are afraid of heights, unsure of recognizing problems, or are currently having issues with your roof, let Brian Dawson Roofing take a look for you. Our professional team of contractors is experienced in roof inspections and repairs. We’ll give you an honest assessment of the condition of your roof and offer the best solutions to keep your home in good condition. Contact Brian Dawson Roofing for your next roof inspection.