DIY Guide: How to Check Your Roof for Damage

Regularly inspecting your roof is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your home. Catching small issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line. Here’s how to safely and effectively check your roof for damage:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• A sturdy ladder: Ensure it’s stable and tall enough to reach your roof. Shop Now
• Binoculars: Helpful for inspecting hard-to-reach areas from the ground.
• Work gloves: To protect your hands while handling debris or shingles. Shop Now
• A notepad or camera: To document any issues you find for future reference or repairs.
• Roofing supplies: To make repairs. Shop Now

Step 2: Safety First

Always prioritize safety when inspecting your roof:

• Make sure your ladder is on stable, level ground.
• Avoid inspecting your roof during wet or windy conditions.
• If you’re uncomfortable with heights or unsure of your footing, consider hiring a professional.

Step 3: Start with a Ground Inspection

Begin by walking around your home and visually inspecting the roof from the ground. Use binoculars to look for:

• Missing or damaged shingles: Look for shingles that are cracked, curling, or missing altogether.
• Sagging areas: Any dips in the roofline could indicate structural damage.
• Debris buildup: Leaves, branches, or other debris can trap moisture, leading to rot or mold.

Step 4: Check the Gutters

While you’re checking your roof, don’t forget the gutters:

• Look for shingle granules: Accumulation of granules in the gutters could indicate your shingles are wearing out.
• Inspect for damage: Make sure the gutters are securely attached and free of rust or cracks.

Step 5: Climb Up for a Closer Look

If it’s safe to do so, use your ladder to get a closer view of your roof:

• Check for loose or damaged shingles: Carefully lift a few shingles to check if they’re loose or if the underlying material is damaged.
• Inspect the flashing: Look around chimneys, vents, and skylights for damaged or loose flashing, which could allow water to seep in.
• Look for signs of wear and tear: Check for signs of aging like cracked caulk or rust spots on flashing.

Step 6: Inspect the Attic

Don’t forget to inspect from the inside:

• Look for leaks: Water stains on the ceiling or walls can indicate a leak.
• Check for light penetration: If you can see sunlight coming through the roof boards, it’s a sign that your roof needs repair.

Step 7: Document Any Issues

Take notes or photos of any damage you find. This will be useful if you need to contact a roofing professional or make repairs yourself.

Step 8: Schedule Repairs if Needed

If you notice any significant damage, it’s important to address it quickly. Small issues like loose shingles or minor leaks can often be repaired easily, but more extensive damage might require professional attention.

Regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather, are a simple yet effective way to ensure your home stays safe and dry. By taking the time to check your roof for damage, you can extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs down the road.