Your roof is one of your home’s first lines of defense against the elements. If its integrity is compromised, your home and property can be vulnerable to damage not just from moisture and temperature extremes but also from animal intrusion. Regular inspections and periodic maintenance are essential to preserving your roof’s integrity and maximizing its lifespan.
What to Expect from a Roof Inspection
Although you can have a contractor complete your roof inspection, this is a job that you can also complete on your own, if you are qualified, feel comfortable doing so and keeping safety first. During a roof inspection, you should plan to evaluate the roof from as many different angles as possible. Walk around the home to look at your roof from every possible vantage point and look at and inside your gutters to spot any signs of build-up. While looking at your roof, you need to see if any signs of wear or damage may necessitate repair or roof replacement. If you see any signs of wear, you need to schedule a visit with us for further evaluation and to create a plan of action to make any necessary repairs.
Roof Inspection Checklist
- Curling or missing shingles
- Blistering or buckling shingles
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Rusting flashing
- Cracked, worn, or missing caulk around the flashing
- Cracks or wearing around the vent pipes
- Moss or lichen on the roof
- Granules in the gutter
Not all of these issues are signs of major problems. However, they do indicate that your roof may need some attention. Missing and cracked caulk might need to be replaced, and missing or damaged shingles should be patched or straightened.
Some of these issues indicate more serious problems are afoot. Moss, lichen, and significant shingle damage can all indicate that it is time to consider roof replacement. Our team can help you decide on the best option for your situation.
Completing Roof Maintenance in Northern Virginia
Along with regular inspections, regular roof maintenance is essential.
Check periodically for loose debris, such as leaves, needles, and branches. Enlist another person’s aid, if possible, and use an extendable ladder to access the roof and remove the debris. It is best to do this on a dry, sunny, clear day for the sake of safety, and wear a roof harness to protect against the risk of injury or have a contractor complete the work for you.
Once your roof is clean of any debris, you can spray a roof cleaner on areas affected by moss or mold. Follow the cleaner’s instructions to give it time to break up the material, and then gently clean away the buildup. Do not use a power washer or hard-bristle brush, both of which can damage the granules that protect your roof.
Finish with vent openings, chimneys, and skylights. Close your fireplace, and use a chimney brush to clean any creosote buildup. Check for missing bricks or mortar as you do so, and then perform necessary repairs and seal the chimney using masonry or a water repellant designed for chimneys.
For the best results, your roof should be inspected at least annually or ideally, biannually. This can reduce the risk of leaks and other damage that could weaken your roof or shorten its life. Visit us today to find out more about a roof inspection in Northern Virginia and to schedule an evaluation and estimate for repairs or replacement.
