One easy way to be kind to your wallet is by doing a roof check yourself (from the ground’s safety) each spring, fall, and after major storms. Catching roof damage early can help you avoid annoying leaks and extend the life of your roof. Many homeowners don’t realize they have roof issues until things spiral and repairs get costly. That’s why knowing how to spot the signs of damage early is so important.
Let’s look at what to watch for, when to call a pro, and how catching problems early can protect your roof and save you money.
Practical Tips on What to Look for as You Assess Your Roof’s Condition
Stay off your roof as you inspect it.
Climbing atop your house can be dangerous. Falls from roofs are a leading cause of serious injuries. And you can cause further damage by walking on your roofing, particularly if it already has problems. Climbing on your roof can void your warranty. At Keeter Roofing and Remodeling, we offer free roof inspections, which means you get solutions from our experienced team’s trained eye. We know where to look and what to look for. So don’t risk your safety and your roof’s integrity by climbing on it to inspect it!
When to call a professional: If you do a visual inspection of your roof from the ground and you spot signs of damage, call a roofing contractor.
Do you see asphalt granules on the ground or where water exits your downspouts?
Granules make your asphalt shingles fire-resistant and protect them from the sun’s harmful UV rays. They are vital to your roof’s longevity, and when they break free of your shingles, you’ll need a replacement quicker. When storms cause a lot of granules to detach, your roof’s integrity may become compromised.
When to call a professional: If you notice a lot of granules at the base of your downspout or in your gutters, call a roofer and get a free inspection to ensure your home’s protective layer is still up to par.
Are you missing some roof shingles?
When you inspect your roof from the safety of the ground, grab a pair of binoculars and step away from your house to take a good look at roofing components. If you see bald spots on your roof, you’re missing shingles. That’s a big red flag that your home’s protective layer is compromised—and is leaking.
When to call a professional: If your shingles are missing, contact a reputable roofer for an inspection. It may be time to plan for a roof replacement.
Are your shingles damaged?
When you look through the binoculars at your roof, do you notice shingles are cracked or compromised? These are signs your roof should be evaluated by the pros.
When to call a professional: Damaged shingles are a clear sign it may be time for roof repair or replacement. Contact a roofer if you spot shingle damage.
Are there dents on your gutters and downspouts?
If your roof suffered hail damage, it’s easy to see. Just take a careful look at your gutters and downspouts. If the hail was strong enough to dent them, your roof probably has hail damage too. Note: If your lawnmower spits out rocks, they may dent your downspouts at about five feet or below. Hail damage will be visible above that level.
When to call a professional: If you spot dents on your downspouts that are higher up than you are tall, get a roof inspection from the pros—you likely have roof damage.
Did a tree—or part of one—fall on your roof?
If a tree has fallen on your roof, or if a limb of a tree is on your roof, your property has obviously been damaged. Act quickly to avoid further issues. A fallen tree is nothing to mess with. It’s vital that a professional removes it and tarps your roof to avoid more moisture damage. Your roof decking and other roofing components may be damaged. Water has likely already penetrated, so calling a water remediation service to prevent mold growth is a smart move. Note: Keep your trees trimmed and away from your roof to help avoid this problem.
When to call a professional: If a tree or a large limb falls on your roof, particularly if your roof was penetrated, call a professional roofer fast to prevent more damage. You’ll need a new roof. The good news is that your insurance should cover it once your deductible is paid.
How Early Detection of Roof Issues Can Help You Avoid Costly Repairs
Catch problems when they are small to prevent big ones.
Addressing issues like roof leaks and damaged shingles or flashing early on is much more cost-effective than waiting for extensive damage to occur, which could require a full roof replacement. Regular inspections help reveal hidden leaks before they cause extensive damage.
Did you spot some roofing issues?
As a homeowner, you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing your property is safe and will protect you from storms and more. When roofing fails, it’s vital to address it quickly to avoid a cascade of further costly damage. So if you spot something we mentioned above, or if it’s been a year since your roof was inspected, it’s wise to call the pros.
Why a roof inspection solves the issue
While there are visible signs of roof damage, there are also hidden signs. The experienced eye of a professional will make sure your roof is safe and uncover any issues early.
Take the Mystery Out of Your Roof’s Conditions with a Free Roof Inspection
Don’t risk your safety by climbing on your roof or a ladder. Get a professional roof inspection to ensure your home is well protected. At Keeter Roofing & Remodeling, we are an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and install premium roofing with precision. Contact us for a free roof inspection today!
