A Roof’s Problem Areas And How To Inspect Them

Key Takeaways:

• Problems with your shingles are caused due to extreme heat or cold.
• Shingles can also damage or go missing due to severe weather conditions, such as high winds and hail storms.
• Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow or back up, leading to water damage on your roof and in your home.
• Flashing is the metal strip to seal the joints between your roof and chimney, which can become loose or cracked over time, allowing water leaks.
• Vent pipes allow air to flow in and out of your home, which helps prevent moisture buildup.
• If you’ve identified any of these areas of concern, calling a professional roofing contractor is the best way to get an inspection or repair.

A roof inspection is perhaps one of the best preventive maintenance jobs that you can do. Most people may assume that if a roof isn’t leaking, nothing’s wrong with it.

However, periodically checking your roof can help prevent damage later. A routine inspection can avoid wear and tear and reduce replacement and repair costs.

Hiring a professional roofing contractor is the best way to inspect your roof thoroughly. But let’s discuss some problem areas you’ll want to look out for and how you can examine them.

Major Problem Areas on A Roof

Blistering, Bulking, And Curling Shingles.

If you see any of these problems with your shingles, it’s a sign that they’re not bonded correctly to the roof. This can be caused due to extreme heat or cold, which breaks down the asphalt.

Inspecting your shingles routinely can help prevent this issue from worsening and causing more damage to your roof. Call a professional roofer immediately to get it fixed if you see any blistering, bulking, or curling.

Missing Or Damaged Shingles

Shingles can also damage or go missing due to severe weather conditions, such as high winds and hail storms. If your area receives bad weather, inspect your roof after every storm to see if there’s any damage.

If you find that shingles are missing or damaged, you must get them replaced as soon as possible. Damaged or missing shingles can leave your roof vulnerable to water leaks and other damage.

Gutters And Downspouts

Another vital part of your roof that you should inspect regularly is your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow or back up, leading to water damage on your roof and in your home.

You should clean your downspouts and gutters at least once a year to prevent this from happening. If your area has many trees, you may need to clean them more often. A professional roofing contractor will also help you install gutter guards to keep leaves and other debris from clogging your gutters.

Flashing

Flashing is the metal strip to seal the joints between your roof and chimney, vents, skylights, and other openings.

It can become loose or cracked over time, allowing water to leak into your home. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect your flashing regularly and have any damaged areas repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Vent Pipes

Vent pipes allow air to flow in and out of your home, which helps prevent moisture buildup. Over time, though, they can become loose or cracked, leading to leaks.

How To Properly Inspect Your Roof for Problems?

Tools You Need for The Inspection:

• Ladder
• Binoculars
• Flashlight
• Camera

Walk Around

Take a walk around your house and look for any missing, broken, or loose shingles. Also, look for any cracked or chipped tiles.

Examine The Gutters

While walking around the perimeter of your house, look at the gutters and downspouts to ensure that they’re free of debris and are securely attached.

Get On a Ladder

If you have a one-story house, you may be able to inspect your roof without getting on a ladder. But if you have a two-story house, you’ll need to climb a ladder to look closely at the roof.

When you’re on the ladder, be sure to use caution and follow all safety precautions. Inspect the shingles and tiles to see if there is any damage. Also, look for any indications of water damage or leaks.

Inspect The Chimney

You can inspect your home for cracks or damage if your home has a chimney. Also, check if the flashing (the metal strip that seals the area where the chimney and roof meet) is loose or damaged. Make a note of any significant damages, so you can have it repaired on priority.

Check For Leaks and Inspect the Attic.

Another vital area to check is the attic. First, look for any signs of leaks. If you see any water damage, make a note of it so you can have it repaired.

Next, look around the attic to see if any areas need to be ventilated better.

There should be vents in the eaves (the edges of the roof) that allow air to circulate. If you don’t see any vents or they are blocked, make a note so you can have them installed or unblocked.

Moreover, while in the attic, look at the insulation to ensure it’s in good condition and doing its job.

Why Routine Roof Inspection Is Necessary

Prevents Major Issues

Routine roof inspection services can catch issues as they develop and prevent them from becoming significant problems.

Saves You Money

If you detect a problem beforehand, it will be less expensive to repair than if you wait until the problem has gotten worse.

Saves Your Time

It’s much easier and faster to fix a problem when it’s small rather than waiting until it becomes a more significant issue.

Protects Your Investment

Your roof is a significant investment, and routine roof inspection services help to protect that investment by keeping your roof in good condition.

Keeps Your Warranty Valid

Most roofing manufacturers require that you have your roof regularly inspected to keep your warranty valid.

A professional roofing contractor can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your roof in good condition for years to come.

Here are some roofing alternatives that you need to consider.

What’s The Best Time to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor?

Roofs can last a lifetime, but they still require maintenance. Every roof is subject to wear and tear. Professional roof inspection services will ensure that minor issues are fixed before they become drastic.

If you’ve identified any areas of concern, calling a professional roofing contractor is the best way to get a comprehensive evaluation. A professional roofing contractor will ensure your roof is in good condition and identify potential problem areas. Iron City Construction LLC provides professional roofing services in Hillsborough County, FL, to meet your various roofing needs. Besides roof inspection services, we also offer roof installation, repair, and replacement. Schedule a consultation today!