A property’s roof should be inspected regularly to prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. In addition to checking shingles and flashings, property owners should inspect interiors for signs of water damage like mold, mildew and water stains.
Debris should be cleared from the roof to avoid restricting drains and accelerating membrane deterioration. Also, previous repairs should be checked to ensure they are still working properly.
For shingle roofs, look for shingles that are loose or missing. These are obvious problems that you want to address right away, as they leave your home vulnerable to rainwater leaks and structural damage. Check for other signs of shingle damage, too, like cracks and curling. Also check for sagging areas on the roof, as well as the condition of the caulking and sealants. If you notice any moss or lichen, remove these growths. They can cause the material beneath the shingles to decay, leading to leaks.
If you live in an area prone to hail storms, make sure your roof is up to the challenge. Check for dents in the shingles, which will show up as dark spots on your ceiling and walls. Metal vents and pipe boots are often hit by hail, too, so they might have dings and dents that don’t appear on the shingles themselves.
You should also be on the lookout for ice dams, which form when heat from your home melts snow and refreezes it at the roof edges. The resulting ice builds up and forces water back under shingles, which can lead to leaks and other damage. Look for icicles hanging from the gutters, or attic and wall staining that might indicate a leaking roof.
Check the valley metal on your roof for rust, and inspect the gutters for debris and blockage. Clean these systems regularly to prevent water flow problems.
Inspect the soffit boards and fascia for rot, warping, cracking, and insect infestation. Also, check for clogged gutters and downspouts, which can be the source of water seepage. Finally, examine joists and rafter boards for rot, moisture, and mold. Repair any damaged or rotting areas as soon as possible.
For tile roofs, you should be on the lookout for loose tiles or broken ones. These can be very expensive to replace, so you want to catch these issues early on. Also, keep an eye out for the presence of moss or lichen on your tile roof. These growths can lead to leaks, and they can discolor the underlying tile. A good spray with a fungicide should keep these growths under control.
Check the Gutters
Gutters are an important part of a healthy roof, but they can also be vulnerable to damage. Gutters that clog or detach can lead to water pooling around the house, foundation problems, and interior leaks. A thorough gutter inspection can help identify potential problems and prevent them from becoming worse.
A complete gutter inspection can be done using a ladder or by hiring a professional. If you use a ladder to reach the gutters, be sure to follow common safety precautions and enlist a spotter if possible. Observe for signs of mold or mildew growth, rust spots, and other damage to the gutters or the surrounding fascia board. A ladder may also be necessary to examine downspouts and the roofline itself. Check for sagging or detached sections of the gutter, as well as for downspout blockages or clogs.
If you do find an issue, it’s best to call in a professional for the repairs. They can clean or replace the clogged or damaged gutters, seal any leaks, and realign the gutter system to ensure proper water flow. They can also inspect and repair the roofing to ensure shingles and other materials are in good condition.
Another way to keep your gutters in good condition is to install gutter guards. These help to reduce the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance by preventing the accumulation of leaves, twigs, and other debris. They can also be a cost-effective alternative to full gutter replacement.
Check the Flashing
Flashing is the key waterproofing component around chimneys, vents, skylights, roof valleys, and other protrusions on your roof. It is typically made of metal, such as aluminum or galvanized steel, and protects these vulnerable areas by forming a watertight seal.
Flashing should be inspected on a regular basis for signs of damage or wear. The most common issue is rust or corrosion, which can cause the flashing to crack or separate from the wall or roof surface. If this isn’t repaired promptly, it can lead to leaks.
You can inspect the flashing yourself by walking around the roof on a ladder or calling in a professional. Ideally, you should check each piece of flashing on the building. If you can’t safely access the roof, use a high-quality camera to take detailed pictures of all the safely accessible elements on the roof. Comparing these photos to subsequent ones will help you see if there are any changes in the condition of your roof.
The most important thing to look for is any visible gaps or cracks. These can allow water to infiltrate the roof, causing serious damage. If you find any, seal them using roofing caulk or roof sealant that is compatible with the material of your flashing.
Next, examine the counter flashing (the piece of flashing that sits under the shingles). Look for signs of leaks or corrosion, such as a deteriorated sealant or visible cracks.
If the flashing is damaged, it should be replaced immediately. First, measure the area where the flashing is to be replaced. This will ensure that the replacement piece is accurately sized and fits snugly against the wall or roof surface. Next, carefully remove any shingles to expose the flashing. Carefully cut the new flashing to size with tin snips or other cutting tool. Once it is in place, secure it with roofing nails or screws.
Lastly, check the pipe and equipment supports on the roof. Make sure that they are not sagging, that there is no rust or corrosion, and that the hangers are not digging into the roof membrane.
Check the Deck
While you’re inspecting the roof, take a moment to walk around the deck and look for signs of damage. If you spot any significant issues, such as large cracks or extensive rot, a professional evaluation should be considered. A professional can also provide a thorough assessment of deck safety and compliance with building codes.
Begin by looking under the deck, examining the condition of fasteners and connectors, such as screws, bolts, nails and metal plates. These should not be rusting, and any signs of moisture damage or dry rot should be addressed immediately to prevent further problems. Next, examine the deck surface and railings. Check for loose boards and railings, which can become a serious safety hazard. Look for areas that are spongy or sagging, as well as a musty smell that often accompanies hidden rot.
Pay special attention to the area where the deck is attached to the house, checking for rotting ledgers that can cause structural failure of the entire deck. Finally, use a level to check for any areas that are not plumb (vertically straight).
The last thing you want is to be enjoying your backyard retreat when it collapses! With regular inspections, you can catch minor issues early before they escalate into major repairs. If you see any signs of deterioration, address them as soon as possible to extend the life of your deck and protect the safety of your family and friends.
In addition to conducting routine self-inspections, you can also help maintain your deck by:
Trim overhanging bushes and trees to reduce shade and potential mold growth.