DIY Roof Inspection Checklist

While the roof isn’t something people regularly think of, it is critical in protecting your home from the elements and keeping you comfortable and dry. So, to ensure your roof is in good condition, it doesn’t hurt to complete a quick roof inspection. This way, you can catch issues before they spiral out of control and require expensive remedies. 

5 Core Tasks on a DIY Roof Inspection Checklist

DIY roof inspection checklists generally feature similar tasks, whether for a relatively new roof or one that’s seen many years. Here are five core tasks to tick off when completing your DIY roof inspection checklist:

Look for Signs of Damage

Many types of damage associated with roofing are visible from the ground, allowing you to safely and easily view potential issues. So, to start your DIY roof inspection, walk around your home and examine the roof from the ground. 

Look for dark patches, cracks, bent or detached flashing, crooked or curled shingles, and missing shingles. Check for debris, like tree branches, as they can hide large cracks that occurred when they landed on your roof. 

Checking for damage might not be your first concern, especially if you’re navigating a new roof inspection checklist. However, since Mother Nature doesn’t have much regard for the age of your roof, damage from tree branches and other environmental factors may occur, so it doesn’t hurt to check. 

If you notice any of these signs, addressing them is essential, as they can lead to leaks and other issues with your roof. 

Check for Moss Growth

While there are mixed opinions surrounding moss growth on roofing and whether it’s harmful, checking for significant moss growth doesn’t hurt. Plants usually hold moisture in their roots, so moss clinging to your roof isn’t ideal. 

On top of that, moss can deteriorate the shingles and wooden underboards on your roof, which doesn’t bode well. Eventually, this can impact your roof’s watertight abilities and structural integrity. 

Examine the Gutters

If your home has a gutter system, check it for signs of roof issues. Sometimes, grit and granules from shingles on your roof can build up in these gutters. The loss of grit and granules can indicate your roof is losing its waterproof qualities, which poses a significant problem. 

While you’re up there, check for dirt and debris in the gutters, as they can cause clogs. Clogged gutters can spell problems for your roof, as water can’t drain properly. In the winter, this can translate to ice dams, which can cause issues for the roof. If you find debris, remove it with a small shovel and a bucket, then flush the gutters with your garden hose to remove residual gunk. 

Visit the Attic

The attic is often the first place you’ll notice issues due to its proximity to the roof. So, once you finish strolling around your home looking for exterior damage, visit your attic. Be careful while walking through your attic, especially if it’s unfinished. 

Check the attic ceiling for signs of water damage, such as water stains, mold, or mildew. These are common indicators of an external leak in your roof. The leak could cause significant water damage in your home if left unaddressed. 

Look for Damage Inside

Generally, the attic is the first place to display signs of water damage due to a leaky roof. However, you might miss those signs entirely if you don’t routinely visit your attic. Eventually, those problems will work their way into the lower parts of your house, where you’re more likely to see them.

So, check inside your homes for telltale signs of roofing issues. Look for water stains and sagging around the ceiling, upper walls, and chimney. These signs can indicate roof leaks, structural issues, or creeping dampness, none of which are ideal. 

Not Sure? Get a Professional Opinion

Roof replacements are expensive, not to mention the damage a faulty, leaky roof can cause to the interior of your home. So, if you encounter any potential problems or are unsure whether something is an issue, it’s always best to call a professional. 

Whether you need to address a roofing problem or install a new one, Glick’s Exteriors can help. We’re happy to answer any questions and concerns you may have, so call us at (610) 810-1290 or complete our online contact form to get started today!