While regular, professional roof inspections are important for ensuring that your roof is performing as expected and is structurally sound, equally important is proactive roof maintenance. Your roof is continually exposed to weather and other strains that can contribute to wear and deterioration, increasing the risk not only to the roof, but the structure beneath.
Hail, high winds ice, and prolonged standing water or ponding on the roof can cause premature aging and deterioration, which will eventually lead to leaks. Undetected leaks can rust steel and rot wood roofs
Noticing the Signs of a Roof Problem
Depending on the type of roof and how accessible it is, you may be able to perform a basic visual inspection yourself. Look for uneven surfaces, missing fasteners, damaged flashing and bent roof vents.
Signs of a damaged roof can also be apparent inside the building. Look for water stains on the ceiling. Even the smallest leak can be a sign of big trouble. If the building has unexplained mold or odors inside, this could be a symptom of a roof leak and water intrusion.
Vents and skylights should be checked to ensure they are secure and not damages. Look for signs of water stains around skylights from inside the building. Plastic domed panels are particularly susceptible to cracks.
Other items to include in your roof inspection include:
- Removing any loose objects or debris. Leaves, pine needles and other materials will hold moisture, accelerating the deterioration of the roofing materials. Keeping the roof clear of debris also reduces the risk that embers from a wildfire will ignite the roof.
- Keeping tree branches trimmed to prevent them from rubbing against the roof and leaves and pine needles from accumulating on the roof and clogging drains and gutters.
- Cleaning gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
- After a hail storm have the roof professionally inspected.