Inspection tips for your home’s roof
By Allstate
Last updated: January 1
Whether it’s keeping you dry on a rainy day or warm and cozy on a cold winter night, your roof is a vital part of your home. To help make sure it’s protecting you and your family from the elements, regular maintenance and inspections are key. Here are some roof inspection tips to consider.
Why should you inspect your roof?
Regular roof inspections can help identify issues prior to them becoming potentially major problems. It may be easier to fix these smaller issues now, which may save you time and money in the long run.
How often should you inspect your roof?
Typically, your roof should be inspected at least once a year, according to Zillow. However, you should also check your roof after any extreme weather event, like hail, snow or wind, and look for any interior leaks, says Zillow. Because all roofs are different, it's important to consult a professional to know what to inspect and how often.
Keep in mind, you should always hire a professional to inspect and maintain your roof. It's extremely dangerous to work on your roof without the proper training. It may also be a good idea to confirm the roof professional has the proper insurance coverage for himself.
What should be inspected on your roof?
Once you find a professional to inspect your roof, BobVila.com suggests they do the following tasks:
- Check the flashings. Flashings are metal pieces that cover curves and edges of your roof, and water can easily leak in and around them if they are damaged. Openings around the flashing may need to be resealed with roofing cement.
- Look in the gutters. If your roof is composed of asphalt shingles, a professional should look in the gutters for pieces or grains of the shingles. This can be a sign that your shingles may need to be replaced.
- Inspect droops. If part of your roof looks like it's sagging, a professional should examine it for moisture or rotting that may indicate it needs to be replaced.
Regular roof inspections may help identify problems before they become worse. By making sure your roof is in good shape, you can help prevent bigger hassles down the road, while keeping your home and family safe, too.
This article highlights examples of precautions you can consider to help maintain your personal property. Please recognize that a particular precaution may not be appropriate or effective in every circumstance and that taking preventive measures cannot guarantee any outcome. We encourage you to use your own good judgment about what's appropriate and always consider safety.