This brings up an important question though; "What should I be looking for?". For homeowners who aren't roofing experts, it can be hard to know where to start.
So what's the first thing to look at? As strange as it may seem, the first thing to do when inspecting a roof is not to look at the roof itself at all. The first step is to look under it.
This means to look in the attic. If the home does not have an attic, check to see if there is an access panel for a crawlspace of some sort. If that isn't present then check the ceiling.
Look for the following when inspecting the attic:
- Signs of water damage or leaking - Vent pipes, chimneys, skylights and valleys are places that will most commonly exhibit these problems
- Dark spots or trails - Press into the wood with a sharp screwdriver to see if the spots are wet. Soft wood is a sign of rot. If the area is dry and there has been rain recently than it may be an area that had been repaired in the past.
- Pinpoints of light - Run some wire up through the hole so the area can be located on the roof. Make sure not to widen the hole at all.
- Sagging sheathing between rafters - This is a sign that a roof is old and in serious need of repair. Check for cracked or sagging rafters and make arrangements to have them replaced.
By checking the attic first, problem areas can be identified without even stepping foot on the roof. This helps to provide a reference of where to look for problems.
After the underside of the roof has been looked at, it's time to go on top and take a look. While on the roof, make sure to check for these things:
- Damaged, loose or missing shingles - Check for blistering, curling or splits. A few can be replaced but if it's a widespread problem then it could be time to re-roof.
- Excessive shingle grain in gutters - Asphalt shingles have a granular surface. As the asphalt ages, it becomes brittle and these granules will fall out. A lot of these grains in the gutters is a sign that the roof is aging. Dark patches on the roof are another sign that this granular surface has worn away.
- Signs of moss build up -
- Exposed nails - These are a common cause of leaks.
- Roof flashing - Inspect all flashing, including flashing around chimneys, vent stacks, roof edges, dormers, and skylights. Make sure it isn't rusty or loose.
- Louvers and Vents - Check to ensure air movement, clean screens and remove bird nests or other obstructions.
- Gutters - Check gutters, downspouts, hangers and strainers. Check for leaks, rust and sagging. Clean out any debris and make sure downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
- Roof sheathing - Inspect lower edge for water damage.
Metal roofs are designed to have a life span of 50 years if properly maintained. These roofs usually come in galvanized iron or steel, aluminum or copper. Look for the following when inspecting a metal roof:
- Open seams or joints.
- Pitting, rusting or corrosion.
Tile roofs are very popular here in the southwest. They are commonly made of slate or clay tile and will last for a very long time if properly cared for. These tiles are often brittle and can be easily broken. Using binoculars is usually the best way to check for broken, chipped or missing tiles.
Flat roofs are also very common in this area. These roofs usually need to be re-coated every 2 or 3 years. Make sure to keep drains clear and check for the following when inspecting these roofs;
- Blistering or peeling in coating.
- Depressions around vent pipes.
- Separations in flashing.
If getting up onto the roof isn't an option, contact a professional to handle the roof inspection. Roofs should always be inspected at least once a year.
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