You should inspect your roof at least twice a year and after any strong storms. A quick inspection can tell you if you need to have a roofing professional come out to make repairs. It can also tell you when it’s time to replace the entire thing. Let’s look at five key elements you should inspect on your roof.
#1 Scan the roof shingles
Most roofs in the U.S. are clad with asphalt shingles. An asphalt shingle roof can last over 20 years with proper upkeep and maintenance. However, those shingles can sustain damage from hail and falling objects. It is important to inspect the shingles for signs of damage or deterioration.
Scan the shingles and look for the following:
- Curling or cupped shingles
- Missing shingles
- Broken or cracked shingles
- Algae or moss growing on the shingles
- Missing granules
Any of these can be signs that the roof has sustained damage or are deteriorating due to age. A professional roofer can determine if the roof requires repairs or should be replaced.
#2 Inspect the flashing
Flashing is the metal sheets that help keep water from infiltrating around pipes, turbines, and chimney openings in the roof. You can find multiple types of flashing used on your roof. When doing an inspection it’s a good idea to look for the following:
- Corroded metal – Steel, copper, and lead are common flashing metals. These metals are resistant to corrosion. However, over time, they can start to corrode. Corroded metal is metal that will start to leak.
- Flashing pulling away- The flashing should lie flush against the surface it protects. If the flashing is pulling away, there is room for water to infiltrate the roof.
- Leaks – The flashing may look good up top. However, if you have water leaking into your home, it may be due to problems with the flashing.
#3 Scrutinize the ridgeline
The ridge is the top edge of the roof. If the roof structure is strong and in good condition, the ridgeline will be straight and true. However, if one of the rafters is buckling or the close-by deck starts to fail, it can cause the ridge to sag or twist. A sagging or crooked ridgeline should be inspected by a professional.
#4 Check the gutters
Your home’s roof is more than just shingles. It is a complete system that includes the rafters, deck, shingles, flashing, and gutters. The gutters take water from the roof, diverting it down and away from the house. If the gutters aren’t in good condition, you could have water damage to the roof or foundation.
The gutters should be in sound condition with no sags or cracks. They should be snugly installed against the soffit. The downspouts should be solidly connected to the gutters and should bring water down and away from the foundation.
#5 Examine the roof deck
The roof deck consists of the plywood or boards used to support the shingles on the roof. The deck should be flat and straight, without any sagging. If you see sagging, the deck wood is rotting, usually due to water infiltration. It can be difficult to see leaks from the top. However, a quick trip into the attic may show you where potential problems are happening. If you see water stains or dripping water, call a roofer immediately.
If you see any signs that your roof may have problems, call in the roofing professionals. They can tell you what needs to be done to keep your home safe and sound.