Whether you have asphalt shingles, flat roofing material, or another type of roof, it is important to check for issues regularly. This helps to catch problems before they become worse and saves money in the long run.
For example, the flashing that surrounds the chimney and vent pipes should be checked to make sure it is intact. Additionally, clogged drains and moss growth should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
An attic inspection is an important part of a roof maintenance plan. Moisture leaves many visual clues in the attic that can help homeowners identify current or potential issues. A professional may use a thermal camera to spot areas of poor insulation and identify possible leaks. However, even without such technology, a good home inspector can find important items to look for in the attic.
Moisture issues are a big concern and one of the most common reasons for roof repairs. Water can damage framing, sheathing and insulation and also cause mold. The attic is a great place to look for signs of moisture, such as water stains, musty odors or peeling paint. These can often be traced to a specific area on the roof and repaired.
A professional may also check for proper ventilation, which is important for preventing energy loss and maintaining a comfortable temperature in the house. Proper ventilation can also prevent excess heat or moisture from damaging the rafters and sheathing. A well-ventilated attic can be a lifesaver when it comes to avoiding costly and time-consuming repairs.
Other items to watch for include ice dams, which are caused by snow or ice melting and running down the gutters. A ridge vent can prevent this from happening and is a good investment for northern climates.
The attic is a great place to inspect ductwork and the HVAC system. The ductwork should be well-insulated and properly secured to the attic floor. Leaking or damaged ductwork should be replaced as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs and to prevent moisture intrusion.
While it is possible to do an attic inspection yourself, it is best to hire a roofing/remodeling contractor for this task. Dealing with attic debris, mold, mildew and critters is not everyone’s cup of tea. An experienced contractor will be able to safely navigate the attic space, which can sometimes be a challenge. Ensure that the contractor is insured and licensed before hiring them. You should also make sure that they will be able to access the attic without having to remove any stored items or blocking the entrance with furniture.
Check the Gutters
Gutters are often overlooked, but they’re essential to directing water flow away from your roof and foundation. They also contribute to your home’s overall appearance. If your gutters are pulling away from the house or have noticeable dents, it’s time to have them repaired. Additionally, if you plan to sell your home in the future, curb appeal is a major consideration for potential buyers.
During your inspection, check the gutters for any signs of damage or leaks. Look for leaking spots near gutter seams, downspouts and corners. Also check the gutters to make sure they are secure to the fascia board and that there isn’t any loose debris.
Once you’ve assessed the condition of the gutters, take a ladder up to them and remove any leaves or major debris that are collecting. Be sure to follow common-sense safety precautions when using a ladder, and enlist the help of a spotter if possible. You may need to use a gutter scoop or a long-handled spatula for the larger pieces of debris. After removing debris, run a hose through the gutter system to flush it out and ensure that all areas are draining properly.
If the gutters aren’t directing water flow away from the house, they may be pulling away or sagging, or they could be leaking down the side of the house and staining the fascia board below. The extra moisture can lead to faded paint, rot and even mold, all of which require expensive repairs.
Finally, check the gutters to see if they are clogged with ice and snow or if there are any sections that have become dislocated from the roofline due to wear and tear or improper installation. Clogged gutters are a leading cause of leaky roofs.
Leaky gutters aren’t always easy to detect, but they can be easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge. Look for rust spots, loose or missing screws and brackets and other signs of wear and tear. If you can’t fix the problem yourself, a professional gutter installer can do so for a reasonable cost.
Check the Flashings
Roof flashing seals off holes in the roof for vents, chimneys and skylights. The majority of roof leaks are caused by faulty flashing, which means it’s important to regularly check the flashing for signs of damage. A leaking flashing can lead to serious water damage inside your home. You should also look for cracks or rust on the flashing. If you find any, you should get it repaired immediately.
Flashing is made from thin pieces of impervious metal like galvanized steel or aluminum. It’s installed at every intersection and joint on your roof, protecting the vulnerable areas from rainwater and storms. A faulty flashing can lead to structural damage and mold growth in your attic or house.
Corrosion is one of the most common problems that can affect your roof flashing. Over time, the corrosion will cause holes in your flashing that can allow moisture to enter your roof and your house.
The best way to inspect your flashing is to climb in the attic and take a closer look. But if you’re not comfortable climbing up there, you can also send someone up in the attic with a garden hose and gently run water over the flashing. If you notice any leaks, you should have the flashing fixed as soon as possible to prevent further water damage.
Other issues that can occur with your flashing include cracks and dents. These can be the result of severe weather events or from a tree falling onto your roof. Cracks in the flashing can weaken it and make it prone to rust, while dents can break the galvanized coating of the steel. If the dents are not addressed, they can lead to major problems down the line.
Another sign that it’s time to have your flashing looked at is noticing brown, damp or dark stains on your ceilings and walls. These are a clear indication that the flashing is not properly sealing the leaks or preventing water from seeping through the roof into your house.
Check the Shingles
The first step of a roof maintenance inspection should always be to walk around your home and look for any damage or missing shingles. This is something you can do yourself, but it is a good idea to get a professional to inspect your roof as well, particularly if you have any serious concerns. A professional can climb the ladder safely and take a close look at the condition of the shingles, the flashing, and any other parts of your roof structure that you may not be able to reach on a regular basis.
Missing shingles aren’t just unsightly, but they can lead to water leaks inside your home. In addition, shingle granules that have been blown off the roof will leave behind pits and holes in the shingles themselves, and that can lead to structural damage to your home. You can often spot this damage by looking for extra granules in your gutters or in the grass.
A good inspection will also check the gutters to see if they’re clogged and if they are directing water away from the house properly. If they aren’t, it could cause water to build up next to the foundation of your house, which can cause mold, wood rot, and other problems.
Clogged gutters and downspouts can also be a sign that the roof’s flashing has been damaged or compromised. The flashing is what protects your shingle from moisture, and the longer it’s sitting there, the more likely you are to have a leak in that area of your roof.
Finally, a good roofing contractor will also examine chimneys, skylights, dormers, and other structures on your roof to see if the metal flashing protecting them is cracked or deformed. If this is the case, it’s important to have these areas repaired as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
Many homeowners think that it’s too expensive to file an insurance claim for a storm damage roof, but that’s not necessarily the case. If you can identify a specific problem with your roof early on and have it fixed before the damage spreads, you may be able to save some money by filing an insurance claim.