The roof is one of the most important features of any home or other building and is the first line of defense against the elements. A solid roof offers outstanding protection to everyone and everything inside a structure. However, roofs don’t last forever. It’s best to catch small problems early so that you can avoid pricey repairs down the road. Roofs should be inspected at least annually and after a major storm. Some homeowners grab a ladder and climb, while others prefer to perform a ground-level inspection. Whichever method you choose, take a moment to check out these expert roof inspection tips before you begin.

Right Ladder, Right Shoes

If you prefer to climb a ladder to inspect your roof, make sure to use the proper ladder and the proper shoes to perform this task. Aluminum ladders are favorites because they’re lightweight, convenient, and easy to carry. Ensure that the ladder is in good shape to climb on and that the foot pads, rungs, rails, and locking braces are all fully functional.

Your shoes also matter since the wrong footwear can cause a ladder accident. Roofing professionals recommend shoes with flat soles because heels can get caught in ladder rungs. Footwear with excellent traction and slip resistance is a plus, including clean soles for maximum traction.

Safety, Always the Main Priority

Place the ladder firmly on a solid footing at a 4-to-1 ratio (1 foot out for every 4 feet up). Ensure that the ladder extends 3 feet above the roofline. Always practice good safety rules by maintaining three-point contact (two hands/one foot or vice versa). Then inspect for cracked or dented shingles, damaged flashing, or granules in gutters.

Not every roof is safe to walk on, especially for a layperson. You can inspect your roof from your ladder at the eaves or with your feet firmly planted on the ground, as explained below.

A Walk-Around with Binoculars

If you feel safer at ground level, you can still perform a decent roof inspection without climbing a ladder. Walking around your home with binoculars is an effective way to examine the roof’s trim and flashing for cracks or damage. You can also observe places where shingles are loose.

Alternatively, you can choose another perspective by viewing the entire roof from across the street. Some roof damage is easier to spot from farther away or from the sides.

Another approach is to check your roof from inside the attic. If you see sunlight coming through it, there are holes in the deck of your roof that can cause leaks and water damage.

If you’re not a professional roofer, don’t take chances. Know your limitations, and always proceed with caution and the proper equipment. If you have concerns or require roof inspection services, contact A+ Roofing in Modesto, CA.