Checking for Roof Damage: A Must Add to Your Fall To-Do List

The summer heat can make it hard to want to tackle your to-do list for your home. However, once the temperatures start to drop, you have the perfect opportunity to tackle those outdoor projects that would have been miserable in the heat. Autumn provides a chance to tackle your outdoor projects before the cold winter months arrive. When it comes to autumn projects, there are numerous areas to tackle to help ensure your home is ready for the winter. One of the most important items on your autumn to-do list should be taking the time to check your roof for damage. Finding minor problems early can help save you from paying for more significant projects later.

Life of Your Roof

In general, most roofs can last about 30 years. This largely depends on your specific location. Where you live and the climate surrounding your area can significantly impact the life of your roof. If you find yourself in an area that deals with severe weather, such as rain, hail, snow, or ice, these elements can impact the overall life of your roof. The roofing material will also impact the longevity of your roof. You’ll want to consider how old it is, when it was installed, the materials that were used, and when was it last re-shingled. Answering these questions can help establish and determine the life of your roof.

Roof Types

Depending on your type of roof, you’ll have a few different aspects to check for. Different roofing materials are structured differently and often protect differently depending on the weather. Common roofing materials include:

• Asphalt-shingles: This is a popular choice for roofing material. With this type, you’ll want to check for any loose or broken shingles. You’ll also want to check for any bubbling or blistering, as these are also signs of your material being compromised.

• Wood: This choice is often for those who like the more natural look and being environmentally friendly. This type of roof requires more vigilance and care. You’ll want to check the wood for any separations, cracks, or breaks

• Tile: This material tends to be more expensive, but it is also more fire-resistant. This type offers more protection against high winds and tends to have a longer lifespan than other materials.

• Metal: This material can also be more expensive to start with, but it tends to have a longer lifespan when properly maintained. You’ll want to check for any dents or rust. Damage to this material is one of the easiest to spot.

• Flat: When it comes to a flat roof, you may need the help of a professional because damages can’t usually be spotted from the ground. They’ll want to look for pools of water, indentations, or tears.

Checking for Damage

Your roof could face numerous types of damage, including water, wind, hail, snow, and ice. Whether it is a large storm or just a seasonal onslaught, assessing your roof for these damages is crucial. When it comes to checking for damage, it is most important to consider your safety. You should try to do your check with both feet still on the ground. You can utilize your own line of sight, as well as binoculars, to focus on smaller detail. If you feel getting on the roof is a necessity, you’ll want to turn to a professional to avoid the risk of harming yourself or others. There are many ways to check for potential damage, including:

• Attic issues: Your attic is a great place to start when checking for any roof damage. If there is any damage to your roof, you’ll most likely notice water stains that run from ceiling to walls. This water damage could lead to mold or, in time, destroy your insulation. In addition, damage to your insulation can impact your home’s ability to regulate heat, which could drive up your heating and cooling costs.

• Shingles: A missing shingle may not seem like a huge deal, but it can, in fact, significantly impact the overall integrity of your roof. You’ll want to check if you have any shingles lying flat or if there seems to be an appearance of any cracking, buckling, or damage. Not only is this cosmetically unappealing, but it can also lead to leaks making their way into your home.

• Seals: You’ll want to check the various seals of your home, including areas that help ventilate your home. It is helpful to check your skylights, chimney seals, and vents. You’ll want to look for any air gaps or seams where rain or snow could enter your home.

• Mold and moss: Mold, moss, or fungi all point to moisture becoming trapped. Proper airflow throughout your home is essential to the health of your entire family. In addition, mold can harm your respiratory health.

• Signs of sagging: Any dropping or sagging in your roof indicates damage. This could mean that moisture is becoming trapped and could be rotting the boards under your shingles. A weakened roof can be dangerous, especially in the upcoming winter months. Therefore, it is important to take care of this issue as soon as possible.

• Debris: This is important to check for, especially after a storm. Debris can cause damage on impact but can also create further damage if left. You’ll want to clear your roof of any debris before the winter months.

When it comes to your fall to-do list, be sure to include checking your roof. Taking the time to check it at least once or twice a year can help spot any minor problems that could lead to more significant issues if not addressed. Checking the surface for creaks, breaks, or missing pieces can help prevent leaks. Checking your attic and vents can help ensure that moisture isn’t becoming trapped in your home. Removing debris from your roof and gutters will help make sure that your roof is ready for the winter weather. If you find yourself encountering any of these issues, don’t hesitate to turn to an expert. They will be able to access the damage and point you in the best direction for repair.