The roof is one of the essential parts of a house; however, homeowners usually only think about it when there is a leak or damage. Annual roof maintenance includes checking for problems and making repairs to keep the roofing in good shape. Create a checklist so you can stay on track with roof upkeep.
Work With a Professional for Annual Roof Maintenance
When planning yearly roof maintenance, hire an experienced roofer for an inspection. A professional has years of training and experience in identifying and repairing issues. They will provide a list of recommended repairs to make now and a list of problems that will need to address in the future.
Check From the Inside of the Attic
The most obvious parts of a roof are the shingles; however, the interior can provide clues to problems with the roof. On the top level of your home or in the attic, look for signs of:
- Wood damage and rot
- Water stains and discoloration on the ceiling
- Moisture or condensation on the inside of the windows, ceiling, or walls, which indicates elevated humidity, possibly due to a roof leak
- Mold or mildew on the ceiling, which typically forms after an extended period of leaking
Exterior Annual Roof Maintenance
Once you have examined the inside of your house for signs of moisture and roof issues, check the exterior. Use a ladder to see the entire surface of the roof. If possible, walk the roof to get a closer look at the condition of the materials. However, don’t walk on the roof if you have slate roofing; hire a professional inspector. Look for the following:
- Wood rot
- Damaged flashing
- Sagging
- Worn shingles or shingle granules in the gutters
- Missing or broken shingles
- Clogged gutters
- Irregularities that indicate a problem
When examining the roofing, take your time to catch minor issues that could grow into serious problems.
Hire a Pro for Repairs
When you notice signs of problems with the roof, call a professional to make repairs. The roof is a major system of any home, protecting your family and your belongings, and it’s best to have a trained roofer to handle the work. As a homeowner, you may be able to replace a few missing or broken shingles; however, major problems and extensive work are best left to the pros.
Gulf Sand Home Inspection offers inspection to homebuyers and sellers in Sarasota and surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.