A yearly roof inspection and preventative maintenance are an essential part of being a homeowner. The ability to identify potential problems with your roofing can save you thousands in costly roof repair. Spring is the perfect time to inspect your roof. Here is a comprehensive checklist of things to look for from your local roofing contractors at KTM Roofing.
Safety First
Inspecting your roof thoroughly will require the use of a ladder. If the idea of heights makes you nervous, you might want to consider a professional. Safety, of course, is number one when it comes to regular home maintenance. Use a ladder that is appropriate for the height of your roof and rated for your weight. Do not wear sandals or flats. Boots with good treading will secure your footing while inspecting your roof. Gloves are also recommended when handling debris on your roof and when checking shingles. The best time to perform an inspection is in the early morning before it gets too hot. Do not go up on your roof during high winds or stormy conditions.
Seasonal Debris
Last winter was crazy for Georgia. Some areas of the state experienced record lows and even snow. Now is the time to brush off those piles of dead leaves and branches from your roof and gutters. Leaves especially can accumulate in valleys and flashings and concentrate excess moisture in these areas. This is problematic because if left untreated, water can seep in between shingles and cause mold and wood rot.
On Your Roof
Tread lightly and inspect your roof for missing and loose shingles. With hurricane season around the corner, these shingles can compromise your roof’s integrity. It is better to identify and replace them now rather than wait for hurricane-force winds to rip them off. Inspect flashings in valleys and around chimneys and skylights. Flashings that are made of metal can develop rust and allow water between masonry, wood, and shingles. If you notice dips and troughs in your roofline, your roof’s structure is already in trouble and needs repair as soon as possible. Check vents for bird’s nests and blockages that prevent adequate air flow from your attic. Roof soffits under the edge of your roof can also be compromised by water damage and rot when gutters become clogged and overflow.
In Your Attic
Inspecting the underside of your roof can better reveal potential problems. Look for sagging or bowing wood panels and load-bearing beams. Discolored wood is often a sign of either water damage, wood rot, or mold. None of these issues can be taken lightly. Water leaks can go unnoticed for months before they start seeping into your drywall ceiling which is why early detection is so important. Never touch mold or rotting wood directly and protect your lungs by wearing a mask for added protection. Bird’s nests and animal feces in your attic are obvious signs of infestation. These should be handled by a professional animal control service before they do further damage to your roof and home. Watch especially for tiny piles of sawdust in your attic around wooden beams. This is a sign of a termite infestation. They can devastate the structural integrity of your roof if not treated quickly.
Keeping up with home repairs and yearly maintenance can be strenuous but taking preventative measures now protects the value of your property. For more information on roofing inspections and repairs contact your trusted roofing contractors at KTM Roofing.
