Roof repair can be a major home expense. Finding issues in advance can keep expenses low. If you can identify problem areas early, you will keep damage from getting out of hand. That is why it’s a good idea to do a roof inspection on a regular basis. While you can call in a professional for these services, you may be able to save yourself some time and money by inspecting the roof yourself. Here are some steps you will want to take when taking time to inspect your roof for damage.
Do a Walk-Around Inspection
Walk around your home’s exterior while on the ground. Look out for signs of damage, sagging and aging. If you find these issues, take a note that they may require further inspection.
Look for Build Ups
Look out for areas with moss or algae build up or piles of leaves. They may cause leaks and water damage. If possible, remove the buildup yourself. Buildups commonly occur in gutters and roof overhangs. These should be cleaned out regularly and you should also be maintaining your downspouts. While taking these steps to inspect your roof be sure to make note of open joins and signs of rot that may be indicators of larger issues.
Check the Shingles
Look out for buckles and curled shingles. These often occur due to hot air emissions from the attic and they put your home at risk for weather damage and poor ventilation. You should also look out for any shingles that are missing or damaged. These will leave your home exposed to inclement weather and they also just look terrible. This is one problem that can save you a considerable amount of money when it is caught early on.
Additionally, you should be checking your singles to see if they experienced any granule or texture loss. This means that your shingles have been damaged or affected by aging and they are no longer protecting your home from weather and other elements. It also means it is time to replace them!
Inspect the Attic
If your home has an attic, inspect it for signs of water penetration under the roof. If you see that this is an issue, it may be time to call in a professional.
How Often Should I Inspect My Roof?
Experts recommend that you inspect your roof twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This way, you will inspect the roof before the season with the most potential weather problems (winter) starts and after it is over. You should also inspect it after a major storm to see whether any damage has occurred.
Now that you know how to inspect your roof, you are ready to save yourself a considerable amount of money in repairs. How will you be using your knowledge to keep costs down? For more information on roofing maintenance visit our website today!