Roof replacement is done primarily for one of two reasons, damage or aging. While the need to repair a damaged roof is usually obvious, aging requires a little more knowledge and inspection. Knowing how to do a proper inspection can be the difference between an affordable repair or a more expensive total replacement. Look over these tips and signs to assess the condition of your roof to determine if a call to a licensed roofer is necessary.
Immediate Threats
It’s easy to think that assessing your roof means going outside and grabbing a ladder to take a closer look. However, your inspection should first start inside your home and in your attic. The primary purpose of a roof is to protect the property and people inside, so by starting in the attic, you can more clearly get a sense of your most immediate threats. So, grab a flashlight and head up to your attic and check for stains, streaks, discolorations, and light intrusions. And don’t forget to check your eaves.
Potential Threats
After starting inside, a visual inspection of the outside is the next obvious step. In addition to stains and discolorations which are indications of a rotting roof, look for sagging and shingles that are:
- Curled
- Cracked
- Have bald spots or missing graduals
You also need to look out for protruding and exposed nails as well as growing moss that traps moisture. During freezing temperatures, this moisture can loosen graduals causing weak points and damage. It’s also important to check all flashing and potential flashing areas such as chimneys, skylights, and vents to ensure that cracks and leaks are mended. You may even need to update your old cement flashing to an all-in-one metal solution that offers more endurance and durability.
Going Beyond the Inspection
Besides visual inspections, there are other things to keep in mind when it comes to your roof. One of the biggest things is the overall age of your roof. Roofs over 20 years old should be inspected more often, generally need more attention, and it is likely at the end of its life. At this stage, be sure to keep in mind that a full replacement would be less expensive than the patchwork needed to maintain it.
Along with the age of your roof, having a record of previous re-shingles or replacements can be a significant factor for anticipating and planning for roofing costs. Another is keeping an eye out for neighbors making repairs or replacement to their homes since it’s common for homes in the same neighborhood to have been built around the same time. Location is also important because roofs in certain areas are prone to specific kinds of damage due to weather conditions. So, it would be good to get some insight from nearby homeowners and realtors what those risk factors are for your area.
Resolving Threats
Homeowners should check the inside and outside of their roof at least twice a year as well as regularly remove debris from gutters, downspouts, drains, and rooftops. It’s best to do these inspections in the fall and especially the spring, to get a good sense of how the previous winter has affected your roof. If you discover that you require repairs, a professional opinion, or a full replacement, contact us. We have the knowledge and experience to meet all of your roofing needs.
