You probably already know that it pays to do regular inspections of your home. If you find damage and potential problems early, you can resolve the issues before they get worse. This means saving money on costly repairs in the future. One of the most important things to do is visually inspect your roof at least a couple of times a year. Fall is one of the best times to do this, so you can get things ready for the cold winter months. Changing temperatures in autumn may even reveal hidden damage on your roof.
What to Look for When Inspecting Your Roof
For many homeowners, an annual professional roof inspection is required for warranty and insurance purposes. Even if you fall into this category, you can still be on the lookout for roof damage so that you can get ahead of any potential problems. One small clue that often goes overlooked is sudden changes to your heating or cooling bills. This may indicate that cool or warm air is escaping from your roof due to hidden damage.
Look for cracked, damaged or missing shingles on the roof. Unusual mold or mildew on your ceilings can also be due to leaks from hidden roof damage. Check all your gutters and downspouts during the fall before they start filling up with leaves. If the gutters are shifting their positions or becoming loose, this can be due to structural problems with your roof. These types of problems are not always obvious, but a professional roof inspector can discover them.
Shingle problems aren’t always obvious. A closer look may reveal warped or curled shingles that will soon need to be replaced. This will help to maintain the integrity of your roof. If you have an attic that you can easily and safely access, fall is a good time to go up there and to have a look around. While you’re there, you can look for more obvious signs of moisture, leaks, cracks and sagging areas of your roof. If you notice discoloration or clear signs of decay in the wood, these are early indications of some bigger problems with your roof. It’s time to call in the pros for a more thorough inspection.
Know When to Call the Professionals
Repairing a roof is hard work that’s usually done in the heat of the sun. Roofing can also be a dangerous business. This is especially true if you lack the experience, tools and safety equipment to do the job right. A poor job can also make the situation worse and end up costing you even more money in the long run. And falling from a high roof isn’t good for your health. Serious roof repairs should only be undertaken by professional roofers, who are also your best option when it comes to routine inspections.
If you live in Modesto, CA, contact us at A+ Roofing Services for roof inspection or repair.