If you have to step outside and look at your house to remember what color your roof is, you are not alone. Life is so busy we generally don't think about things until something happens to call our attention to it. Trust me, a roof leak is not something you want to wait to find, especially with all the constant rain our region has been receiving. A roof inspection schedule is a wise one to keep, ideally when you have your first or last mow of the year for preventative maintenance. Of course, if you experience a storm that warrants an inspection, do not hesitate to have an additional inspection done.
Roof damage can arise from a many factors and there are many sources the homeowner should be cognizant of from the inside of the house such as sufficient insulation, vapor barriers, and proper ventilation in ceilings and attic space. Without these items being adequate for your home, the rafters, decking, and even the roof material itself can decay from constant exposure to moisture and condensation that cannot be seen from the outside of your house.
After a hard rain, an examination from the inside of your attic is a good idea. Look for pinholes you can see light through, and with a flashlight, look for dark or rotting wood spots. If you find a wet area, it can be traced back to the point of moisture entry where a reference point can be noted for your roofing specialist. You will want to make note of any signs of rodent life in your attic; if there is a sign of life there is an entry point.
Aside from checking the interior attic, the flashing on your roof should be checked. Flashing is the thin metal bands that form a water tight seal around chimneys, vents, dormers, skylights, and where vertical walls meet or enter the surface of the roof. The roof's gutters and downspouts should also be examined to reduce stains and decay on siding and prevent ice damage. Proper gutters and downspout systems are also very important when it comes to the integrity of a dry basement. Make sure your gutters are free of debris so there are no clogs and water does not leak to your foundation, but is properly channeled from your roof and away from your house.
Look your roof over for missing, cracked or warped shingles. Binoculars can be used to search for trouble spots and to look for loose flashing or rust stains, possibly indicating corroding nails in flashing and a moisture entry point. Pay close attention to the flashing around protrusions and walls, and look for any cracked tar that is often used around these areas.
If your inspection points to a problem or a leak, how do you know if you need a quick fix or a call in to a professional? Roof Doctor, Inc. always recommends calling a professional. Roof work can be dangerous, especially with the pitch of a high roof, and with a quick fix, there may be an underlying problem that is not discovered and remedied.
If you have remained leak free thus far, you are in luck and I highly suggest continuing the maintenance program described here to protect your investment in your home. Roof Doctor, Inc. is always available for answers to your questions and concerns. Call Roof Doctor, Inc. today at 816-356-5463 and we'll discuss your specific needs.