How often do you take a hard look at your roof? If you are like a lot of people, you may barely give it a glance, especially when you are shuttling the kids back and forth or running one of a variety of errands. However, it is important to spot any issues before they turn into major problems. According to building and roofing experts, people need to inspect their roofs twice a year, or in the spring and fall.
How to Begin an Inspection
The National Roofing Contractors Association, or NRCA, in the U.S. advises that you begin an inspection for roof repair in the attic. Once inside the attic, turn on your flashlight and take a look at any place where the roof deck may be sagging.
Also scope out any signs of leaks or water damage. Dark spots or trails are also an indicator that a repair is in order. If you see areas where light is filtering into a hole, you need to make a call to a roofing repair specialist.
Once you have made an initial interior check, you need to look at the roof’s exterior. Now is the time to see if there is any damage to flashing or missing shingles. Algae growth is also not a good sign in a roof’s condition.
During your inspection, see if any of the shingles are cracked or torn. The roof should also be scanned for any evidence of wear around the vents, chimney, piping or similar installments. Be on the lookout, as well, for excessive amounts of shingle granules. The granules are similar in appearance to large grains of sand. Seeing this kind of residue in the gutter is a clue of advanced wear.
Looking for Water Damage
When looking for signs of mold, rot or moisture, keep in mind that that a wet spot may not appear under the shingle that needs repair. Many times, the water will slide over the roof’s surface before it begins to drip. If you do have a water-related problem, fungi, bacteria or mold will grow in a very short amount of time – usually 24 to 48 hours after the water starts to drip.
When performing an inspection for a roof repair, you also need to assess the drainage situation. Make certain that the downspouts and gutters are securely affixed to the house and not blocked with debris or leaves.
The condition of the roof also depends on the material of which it is made. A shingle on a cedar roof, for instance, will fall apart or split during a dry spell. If the climate is humid, it will tend to become mossy.
