Here’s a Complete Checklist for Your Spring Roof Inspection

Every year during spring, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof to ensure it can still protect your home effectively. There is often a list of things that many roofing companies recommend you follow. Here is a complete checklist for your spring roof inspection.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

The primary role of gutters is to direct rainwater away from your roof. But, if your gutters are clogged with leaves and twigs, water can overflow and leak into your attic. Inspecting your gutters every spring allows you to catch early warning signs.

Ensuring you have efficient gutters will also go a long way in preserving your roof. Clogged gutters can eventually result in leaks, structural damage, mold growth, and rot. Clogged gutters also make a perfect breeding ground for pests, such as mice, termites, and mosquitos. These pests can do quite a bit of structural damage to your roof.

Cleaning your gutters annually helps maintain curb appeal, too. It’s an easy task that improves the appearance and functionality of your roof.

2. Examine the Shingles

If you have asphalt shingles, they can take a beating throughout the year – whether it’s from a snowstorm, hail, strong winds, or a heatwave. Fluctuating temperatures can result in your shingles cracking, curling, or deteriorating. Strong winds may even blow the shingles off your roof. By examining your shingles annually, you can replace missing or damaged shingles as soon as possible.

Another reason to examine your shingles is to see if your roof has been compromised by leaks and water damage. Cracked or broken shingles become entry points for moisture and water. Shingles that have lifted can easily let water in as well. By replacing these shingles early on, you can prevent expensive repairs later on.

3. Check the Attic

Many people tend to overlook their attic when performing a roof inspection. However, inspecting your attic ceiling is a good way to spot leaks and water damage. If you have stains, damp insulation, or even mold growth, there’s a good chance you have a roof leak.

Roofs need to breathe, and proper ventilation in your attic can help. When you inspect your attic, check that the roof vents and attic vents are free of obstructions and debris. Proper ventilation will not only improve your home’s air quality but will also prevent moisture buildup in your roof’s underlayment.

You can also catch any signs of sagging in your roof when you inspect your attic. There may be gaps or cracks in the rafters as well. These structural issues should be fixed immediately.

Finally, look for any rodents or bats in your attic. Rodents can chew through sections of your roof as well as your insulation. If you see droppings or gnaw marks, take immediate action.

4. Assess the Surface of Your Roof

Inspecting the surface of your roof allows you to determine if there’s any obvious damage. Look for cracked, broken, or loose shingles. Other signs to look for include curling, buckling, granule loss, and simple wear and tear. Make sure your roof is draining water properly, too. If water is pooling on sections of your roof, this can result in water damage or leaks.

Regularly inspecting your roof will also extend your roof’s lifespan. By catching minor issues, you can fix them as soon as possible. Seal cracks early and fix any drainage issues. These small steps will ensure your roof lasts for years.

5. Look at the Flashing and Chimney

Flashing tends to get overlooked, but if your flashing is damaged, corroded, or worn out, water will eventually leak into your home. Inspecting your flashing annually lets you check for signs of deterioration. Like your flashing, your chimney can deteriorate and allow water in. Look for gaps around the base or cracks in the masonry.

Damaged flashing can also weaken the structure of your roof, especially if there is extensive water damage in that area. By keeping up with annual maintenance you can address any problems early.

6. Check the Surrounding Trees

While trees add aesthetic appeal to a property, they can also cause damage to your roof if they are not maintained. Overhanging branches, for example, can damage your shingles, flashing, and the roof structure. Make sure to trim back any overhanging branches so they don’t become a problem.

During the fall, falling leaves can accumulate on your roof and in your gutters. This can lead to debris, water pooling, and clogs. When you inspect your roof, bring a large garbage bag, and remove all the leaves and twigs.

Pests, like squirrels and raccoons, like to make their homes with twigs, branches, and leaves. By trimming branches and keeping the area clean, you’ll deter these animals.

Overhanging branches are also a fire hazard. This is especially true if the branches, twigs, and leaves are dry. By removing all the dead leaves and twigs, you’re reducing the risk of a fire.

Scartelli Roofing and Exteriors

Need roof installation, repair, or maintenance services in Bethlehem, NJ? Contact Scartelli Roofing and Exteriors. We offer shingle, slate, and EPDM rubber roofing.