The roof provides the first layer of protection from weather events and debris that can damage the structure below. Routine maintenance and inspections are the best way to spot potential problems before they become serious.

Check interior signs of water damage such as mold, mildew, water stains, and peeling paint. Also inspect stairs, crossovers, and platforms for structural soundness and surface deterioration that could cause an unsafe working environment. 

Debris can be very damaging to the roof, so removing it on a regular basis is essential. If left unattended, debris can block drains, encourage the growth of moss and algae, and allow elements to penetrate the surface and damage or rot the shingles. It can also cause water to accumulate on the roof, resulting in leaks and other structural damage to the home.

Debris removal is a job best done by a professional who is trained in the proper techniques and safety precautions. If you’re comfortable working on the roof yourself, start by picking a sunny day that isn’t windy. Windy conditions can create a risk of falling debris, and rainy weather can make the roof slippery, increasing your chances of slipping or getting hurt.

Begin by clearing the large piles of debris that have collected on your roof. This may be as simple as using a broom for light debris like pine needles or dry leaves. A leaf blower is preferred for more substantial amounts of debris, as it can remove the debris without damaging the roof shingles themselves. However, be sure that you’re not blowing the debris into the chimney, skylights, or other vulnerable areas of the roof, as this could cause additional damage.

While removing debris, keep an eye out for small branches and twigs that have fallen off the trees. These should be trimmed to minimize the amount of debris that ends up on your roof, and you can also take preventive measures by installing bird deterrents to discourage pests from nesting on your property.

You should also clear out the gutters and drainage systems. Debris can clog the drains and cause water to pool on the roof, which can erode the surface or cause leaks, and it can even redirect rainwater into other parts of the building, creating more extensive (and costly) problems. A roofer can help you remove debris from the gutters and drainage system and clean it thoroughly to protect your home’s foundation and landscaping. They can also check for signs of a damaged roof and repair any areas that need attention.

Check for Signs of Damage

The first step in roof maintenance after a storm is to check for signs of damage. This is important because if a roof is not in good condition, it can leak and create expensive problems. Look around your yard for shingles that have been blown off the roof, as well as debris that has been left behind from the storm. You should also check for dents in the roof surface, as these can lead to moisture and structural problems.

Next, walk through the house and inspect the ceilings and walls for signs of water damage. This can include discoloration, sagging, or a musty smell that is caused by trapped moisture. Moisture can cause mold, mildew, and other serious problems that require immediate attention. If you notice any of these issues, call a professional to inspect and repair the roof.

Another sign of roof damage is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling or walls. These are often in the shape of a U or V, and they are an indication that moisture is leaking through the roof into the house. If left unchecked, this can lead to expensive and extensive water damage that may require major repairs or replacements.

You should also inspect the soffits, fascias, gutters, and flashing for signs of damage. These are vital sections of the roof that help to keep water away from the home, and they are often vulnerable to damage during storms. If they become damaged, they can clog and overflow, which will damage the underlying structure and lead to leaks.

It is a good idea to check for signs of damage in the attic as well. This is where most of the moisture will accumulate, and if it goes undetected for too long, it can lead to costly damage to insulation, walls, and wood. Inspect for cracks, openings, deterioration, and crazing in the sealant. This can allow moisture to infiltrate the attic, leading to rot and mold, or even collapse the structure.

Finally, it is a good idea to inspect the chimney and vents for signs of damage. This includes a buildup of a soot-like substance known as creosote, which can be harmful to the chimney and the structure of the roof.

Clean the Gutters

Gutter cleaning may seem like a nuisance, but it can prevent serious roof damage and save you money in the long run. When rainwater is unable to flow freely from your roof, it can cause problems such as rotted fascia boards, window and wall damage, mould and damp in the house, as well as water seepage through internal walls. Gutter cleaning ensures that debris is removed from the gutter and downpipe system, and that it is able to drain effectively.

Most experts agree that spring and fall are the best times to clean your gutters, but it is a good idea to inspect them at least once every couple of months. A good way to tell if it is time for a cleaning is to look at the gutters during a rainstorm – if they are full of leaves and debris, then you will need to clear them out.

A simple garden hose can be used to flush out the debris in your gutters, and this should be done regularly. However, it is important to work from one corner of the gutter section to the middle, and not push the gunk further down into your downspouts. It is also a good idea to check your downspouts for clogs, cracks and wear and tear and make any repairs if needed.

If you do decide to take on the job of climbing up on a ladder and clearing out your gutters, it is a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and safety glasses. It is also a good idea to have a spotter on the ground who can help you to stabilize your ladder and hand you tools as necessary. It is also a good idea to use a telescoping ladder with adjustable stabilizing arms, or a Louisville Ladder Stabilizer, to reduce the risk of slipping off and falling.

Another option is to hire a professional gutter cleaning service to complete the task. This can save you the hassle of climbing a ladder and avoids the need to buy or rent equipment. In addition, a professional can also inspect the condition of your gutters and downpipes to ensure they are in good working order.

Schedule an Inspection

A well-functioning roof protects your entire home, and the sooner any problems are detected, the easier it is to fix them. Whether you are experiencing a leaky roof or water stains on the ceiling, you need to take action quickly before the problem escalates. A professional inspection is a great way to get a comprehensive look at the condition of your roof, and it can help you determine the best course of action for repair or replacement.

A qualified roofing inspector will evaluate the overall condition of your roof, looking at everything from the exterior surface to the interior attic space. They will check for any obvious signs of damage and will also look for things like a sagging roof, uneven roof planes, and the condition of the gutter system, fascia, and soffits. Inspectors will also examine the ventilation to make sure there are no issues with moisture or temperature control.

The best time to have a roof inspection is early fall before the rainy season begins. This will allow the inspector to address any issues that might arise and prevent them from becoming more serious in the winter. After a severe storm is another good time to schedule an inspection, as this will allow the inspector to identify any damage that might be caused by hail or wind.

Buying or Selling a Home

When you are considering selling your home, having an inspection done before the sale will ensure that there are no surprises regarding the condition of the roof and will give you an advantage in the marketplace. Likewise, if you are buying a new home or building an addition, a pre-construction inspection is a must.

Most home inspectors aren’t experts in roofing, so if they notice an issue with the roof they will usually recommend that you contact a professional roofer. In the long run, getting regular roof inspections can save you money on repairs and time in addressing potential issues that could turn into major problems down the road. Just think of it as an oil change for your roof.