Easy Steps to Inspecting Your Roof

When was the last time you inspected your roof?

Be honest – when it comes to home maintenance, sometimes you forget about your roof, right? Well, you’re not alone! The two most common causes of water damage in the home come from flooded basements and leaky roofs. You should have a roof inspection done at least twice a year and after every storm or severe weather event. You don’t have to call a professional to inspect the roof, this is a 7-step DIY tips to repair your roof that’s simple, quick, and cost-efficient. So you can identify the condition of your roof and know if some repair work needs to be done, or if its time to replace your roof.

1: Walk Around

Walk around your home’s exterior, inspecting the roof from the ground for signs of damage, sagging, and aging. Take notes of any possible problem areas or areas in need of closer inspection.

2: Identify Area for Water Damage

Identify areas with moss, algae, and piles of leaves – these areas are notorious for causing costly leaks and water damage.

3: Keep an Eye Out

As you continue your roof inspection, keep your eye out for buckled and curled shingles! Hot air from attics often causes shingles to buckle and curl away from the home, putting your roof and home at great risk for weather damage and poor roof ventilation.

4: Look for Damage

Look for missing, damaged, and aged shingles – this is the leading cause of roof damage. When you take the time to inspect your roof, you can catch minor issues like these before they turn into major issues followed by serious damage. Missing shingles = direct exposure to inclement weather, plus, they are an eyesore!

5: Clean Gutters

It is so important to clean your gutters and roof overhangs and maintain your downspouts! As you’re performing these essential tasks, make note of open joins and signs of rot, as those are typical indicators of larger issues.

6: Granule Loss

Look closely for granule loss (texture on shingles). Granule loss indicates that shingles have aged or have been affected by severe weather, and are no longer protecting your home against damaging storms. If your shingles don’t have a texture on them anymore, replace them!

7: Check Out the Attic

Does your home have an attic? If not, skip this step! If your home does have an attic, look for signs of water penetration under the roof.

You’ve Completed the Roof Inspection, Now What?

After you’ve completed the roof inspection with these simple tips, take some time to review your findings. Did you stumble across any potential problem areas or major concerns? If so, contact a local professional immediately. Remember: a smart homeowner is a pro-active homeowner! When you fixing minor problems or concerns before they become disasters you can avoid major damage later on.

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at 314-227-3932.

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Updated 8/17/2020