Inspecting Your Roof
Why take the risk of climbing up on your roof to inspect it yourself? Inspecting your roof is just one of the things we do at Spokane Roofing Company, your year-round local roofing contractor. We’ll inspect your roof and get you on a regular inspection schedule. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you can inspect your roof using binoculars. Always inspect under the eaves and overhangs to look for any damage, which might indicate water leakage, especially at dormers or skylights. Taking the time to do regular, thorough inspections will save you money in the long run!
What to look for When Inspecting Your Roof
A good roof inspection is more than just climbing up and looking around-it’s important to know what you’re looking for. Here are some of the most significant pieces of an inspection for different types of roofing materials.
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Flashings.
Those are the metal pieces that cover interruptions in the roof, such as around dormers, chimneys, and vent pipes. Damage should be fixed right away, because inadequate flashing will allow water to enter the interior of your home, harming walls and other infrastructure.
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Asphalt.
Asphalt roofing materials have a granular surface, much like fine gravel. As asphalt ages, it becomes brittle and granules separate from shingles. If you see lots of granules in your rain gutters, your roof is probably aging. Look for bare spots in the shingles, as well as tearing or warping. If your shingles are curling, it’s time to replace them.
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Wooden shakes or shingles.
Rain, sun, snow, and ice will eventually damage wooden materials, so look for signs of dry rot or warping, and learn the difference between shakes and shingles. Shakes are hand-split, while shingles are sawed and tapered. If one-third of your shakes or shingles are damaged, it’s time for replacement. IN ADDITION, BE SAFE — NEVER WALK ON A WOODEN ROOF WHEN INSPECTING IT.
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Metal.
A metal roof has a design life of 50 years if maintained and properly painted. Metal roofs might be galvanized iron or steel, aluminum, copper, or even lead in older homes. Look for signs of pitting, rusting, and corrosion that are to be expected in an aging metal roof. In addition, look for loose or open seams, and joints that might allow leaking.
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Slate, clay tile, and asbestos cement shingles.
These are all high-end materials and will last for the life of your home when properly maintained. They are fragile, though, and are subject to ice damage in intemperate climates. Because they are so brittle and easily broken, the best way to inspect them is with binoculars, checking for broken, chipped, or missing pieces.
When you do your own roof inspection and have concerns, or when you decide to have a professional roofing contractor take a look, call Spokane Roofing Company at (509) 838-8633. Our estimates are always free!