Why Regular Roof Inspections Are Essential for Your Home

Keeping the roof in good condition is one of the most important responsibilities of a homeowner, and regular inspections or check-ups are a good way to do this with minimal effort but maximum benefits. 

Roof Inspections vs. Maintenance

Despite the overlap between the functions of both maintenance and inspection, they are distinctly different tasks with their own purpose. Maintenance is conducted by a roofing professional once a year, and after every storm. An experienced roofer is expected to assess the roof’s condition, identify signs of roofing problems, and come up with a repair and maintenance plan. Inspections, on the other hand, can be conducted by the homeowner. The intent is to keep tabs on the roof’s condition, identify signs of roofing damage, and have a roofer perform repairs before the damage gets worse.

How To Inspect Your Roof

You don’t have to climb your roof or use anything more complex than a pair of binoculars and something to record your findings, like a notebook or your smartphone. From your yard, train your binoculars on the roof’s surface and examine every inch. Pay attention to missing, damaged or dislodged components, including flashing. When examining the gutters, soffit and fascia, take note of water stains, discoloration and signs of corrosion.

Next, climb into the attic and examine the roof deck and framing. Take note of signs of water infiltration, including water stains and clumping insulation, as well as pinpoints of light, which are indicative of holes in the roof. If the air in the attic feels hot and humid, it may indicate a ventilation issue, which should also be noted during your inspection.

What Happens After?

Once you have completed your inspection, contact your roofer. Depending on what you find, a roofer may recommend anything from temporary fixes for later minor repairs, to major repair work. There’s no denying that repairs are a significant expense, but consider it as an investment: minor damage will only get worse from continued exposure to the elements. Also, repair costs can be mitigated by warranty coverage or — in case of weather-related damage — your homeowners’ insurance coverage.

If you need help with your roof, give our team at Grand Forks Exteriors a call at (701) 951-7663. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.