Routine roof care is essential for every homeowner in order to circumvent unexpected leaks and to promote structural integrity over time. Through an effective inspection process, using a proven roof checklist, homeowners can catch smaller problems before they become more costly to repair. Generally speaking, most roof inspections should be performed twice a year, preferably in the spring and again in the fall, and understanding where to begin with the inspection is critical. Homeowners who want assistance with their roof inspection should consider hiring a quality Lebanon roofing company to assist with evaluating and taking care of their roof.
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When inspecting your roof, it’s important to take care and be safe as well as use the right techniques. Knowing what to inspect for via both an external and internal approach can also help in ensuring that your roof remains in good working order and performs at its best. By routinely inspecting your roof, you are able to help prevent water from entering your home, prevent the growth of mold and mildew, and also potentially reduce your monthly utility bills.
If you are a new homeowner, or are trying to keep your long-term investment lasting for many years to come, following a roof maintenance checklist will provide you with peace of mind. Paying attention to the small things can allow your roof to endure the weather elements and protect the belongings that you store inside of your home. Working with roofers who are local to you can complement your personal roof inspection efforts, as they can provide you with added assurance regarding the long-term health of one of the largest, most valuable investments you’ll ever make.
Homeowners who live in surrounding areas of Lebanon can also leverage Union roofing company for tailored commercial and residential roof inspection and repair services that align with regional requirements and needs.
Exterior Inspection
Shingles
Check your shingles for any signs of visible damage. Missing, cracked, or curling shingles can lead to leaks over time. Granules from asphalt shingles collecting in your gutters can also indicate that your shingles are aging or becoming worn. Damaged shingles need to be fixed immediately to avoid moisture entering your home and causing further damage. As stated in Angi, even small defects in your shingles can allow moisture to enter your home and create additional problems if not repaired.
Flashing
The flashing that seals areas around chimney stacks or vent pipes or roof openings (skylights etc.), will be examined for signs of both separation & damage to the established seal. Flashings that are either damaged or separated are often associated with leaking, so be sure to check for signs of rust, cracking, & movement. If any gaps or corrosion are found in the flashing, it would be advisable to get these areas repaired immediately.
Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters that aren’t functioning correctly and/or are sagging, can cause water to pool instead of draining properly. To keep gutters from becoming clogged, they should be secured securely, kept clean, and have positive drainage away from the home’s foundation. Gutters are also connected to downspouts which allow water from the gutter system to flow out of your home and into the ground. Check your downspouts for leaks and/or clogs that may cause backup water.
Moss and Algae
Examine your roof for the presence of moss, lichen, or algae. They hold moisture next to your roofing materials, causing them to deteriorate faster than normal. To remove moss, use a soft-handled brush and an appropriate cleaning product specifically designed for roof materials to ensure that the roof properly protects your home or building from the elements.
Interior Inspection
Attic
Check the attic for indicators of shrinkage and/or moisture damage (such as damp/wet spots), mold, and/or discolored insulation that supports potential water leaks into your attic. If your attic smells bad and/or has visible mold spots, this is an indication there is currently moisture present in the attic, and that the comfort of the attic cannot be guaranteed and there is a risk to the structural integrity of your home.
Ceilings and Walls
Examine the top levels of your home; pay attention to any penetrations in the roof (i.e., chimneys, vents) where you may notice yellow/brownish discolorations indicating there have been or are currently leaks. Discolorations may also be indicative of condensation problems and should be watched closely.
Ventilation
Moisture can escape through proper airflow within the attic that will also keep the roof deck dry. Conversely, when the ventilation is blocked or there are insufficient air flow openings, they will trap moisture within the attic and accelerate the rotting of wood and increasing the risk of mold developing. Finally, good attic ventilation increases the lifespan of the shingle and provides better control of the temperatures inside your home.
Structural Assessment
Sagging
Take a step back from your residence and observe your roofline from a distance. Check for any low points in the area of the roofline that could be indicative of the deck not being properly supported, or it could also be an indication of decay within the deck material itself (i.e., rotten wood). Sagging may warrant the attention of a qualified professional due to the potentially extensive amount of damage that could have occurred.
Roof Deck
When inspecting your attic, it’s best to take a look at the underside of your roof deck. If there are signs of decayed timber, bent boards or extreme color variations, you will need to take steps to fix them right away. If you don’t address these issues, they may lead to even more weakened support for the entire roofing framework.
Safety Precautions
Safety is the number one priority when conducting inspections. When using ladders, choose durable ladders on firm flat surfaces, as well as having someone help you with your inspection. Ensure that your footwear is slip-resistant to avoid slips and falls. If you’re inspecting a high or steeply pitched roof, you may want to consider using a safety harness or binoculars for your inspection to stay away from the potential hazards associated with a roof. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year falls from roofs are responsible for many injuries that occur within homes.
When to Call a Professional
Consulting a professional roofing contractor when you find extensive damage, structural issues with the roof, or if you are unsure is necessary. A contractor will give you the correct diagnosis of the condition of your roof using expert methods and evaluate what options exist to repair your roof or replace it. Professionals have the experience and tools to find problems that may not be visible during a simple visual evaluation.