Inspecting your Roof for Damage

How often do you stop and take a look at your roof?

Your roof is a vital protection from rain, sun, wind and debris, but it’s not something us homeowners really stop to think about all that often - until something goes wrong.
We’re at the tail end of summer now and stormy autumn days are not the time to discover your roof is leaking or damaged. If something goes wrong with your roof in a storm it can be a disaster costing thousands of dollars, so it’s best to get the little things fixed now and stay on top of any roof repairs that need doing.

This weekend, make it your task to take some time and have a good look at your roof from the outside to see if it needs repairing.  You may need a ladder to inspect it properly but avoid walking on it– safer for you and better for your roof.

Here’s what to look for:

• Check for signs of sagging. A sagging area of your roof is a severe sign of damage and you will need to have it professionally inspected, repaired and potentially replaced ASAP.
• Look for signs (such as black spots) of mould or rot
• Check the flashing for corrosion or damage
• Check if there is any debris on the roof that needs removing, or overhanging tree branches that need trimming back
• Check for damaged, missing or cracked tiles or shingles. These need to be replaced quickly before it rains or else water can penetrate through and cause the roof timber to rot. If your shingles are loose or curling away from your roof they will also need inspecting and likely replacing.
  Check your gutters for shingle granules – if they are present, your shingles will need replacing
• Check for rust spots if you have a metal roof
•  Check that the roof valleys are well sealed
• Inspect your gutters to ensure they are in good repair and clear of debris

By checking your roof at least twice annually you can extend the lifespan of it for several years and prevent a major expensive disaster later on. If you need to have your roof replaced or repaired professionally, get multiple quotes from local experienced certified roofing professionals to get the best value and quality on your job.