When it comes to your home, one of the most critical components to maintain is your roof. The roof plays a pivotal role in protecting you, your family, and your belongings from the harsh elements, so it’s important to keep it in optimal condition. Over time, roofs can suffer wear and tear from storms, aging, and even the sun. To avoid significant damage, regular roof inspections are essential. While some homeowners choose to inspect their roofs themselves, there are times when calling a professional roofer is necessary.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how you can perform a DIY roof damage inspection to spot any potential issues early and when it's time to bring in the pros to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Why Roof Damage Inspection is Important

Roof damage is a silent yet impactful issue that can quickly escalate from a small leak to a major structural problem if ignored. The longer you wait to address roof issues, the more expensive the repairs will likely be. For example, if you have a small leak and don’t catch it early, water could seep into your home’s walls or attic, causing rot and even affecting your electrical systems. Therefore, keeping an eye on roof damage should be an essential part of your regular home maintenance.

By routinely inspecting your roof, you can spot damage early, reduce the risk of major repairs, and improve the longevity of your roof. Here’s what you need to know about inspecting for roof damage and when you should call a professional.

Steps for DIY Roof Damage Inspection

1. Safety First: Take Precautions

Inspecting your roof can be risky if you don’t take the necessary precautions. If you're going to climb up a ladder, make sure it’s stable and placed on level ground. Use the appropriate footwear to avoid slipping, and always have a second person nearby if possible. If your roof has a steep slope or you don’t feel comfortable getting up there, it’s best to skip the DIY route and call a professional immediately.

If you’re choosing to inspect the roof from the ground, grab a pair of binoculars. With the right vantage point, you'll still be able to identify some common types of roof damage from a distance.

2. Start with an External Visual Check

The first step in the inspection is a visual check of the outside of your roof. Walk around your house and look up. Check for the following indicators of damage:

• Missing Shingles: These are the most obvious signs of roof damage. When shingles blow off, or if they’re severely cracked or broken, it can expose the underlayers of your roof, making it susceptible to leaks.
• Curling or Buckling Shingles: Over time, shingles can become damaged due to UV rays or weather extremes. When they begin to curl or buckle, they can no longer protect your home.
• Granules in the Gutter: If you notice a buildup of granules from your shingles in your gutters, it’s a sign of wear. Shingles are coated with granules that protect them from the sun, and once they wear off, they become more susceptible to damage.
• Dark Spots and Streaks: These can indicate algae or moss buildup. While these are often just cosmetic, they can signal water damage or reduced efficiency in your roofing materials.
• Sagging Roofline: If you notice any areas of the roofline dipping or sagging, it’s a serious red flag. This could indicate underlying structural issues, such as rotting wood, water damage, or a compromised foundation.
• Chimney or Vent Problems: Check around chimneys and vents for signs of water leaks. Water damage in these areas can indicate improper sealing or flashing issues.

3. Inside the Home: Look for Leaks or Water Stains

Once you've inspected the exterior, head inside to check for water damage. Begin by checking your attic, as it's often the first place to show signs of roofing issues. Look for:

• Water Stains or Dark Spots: These could indicate a leak or moisture buildup. Staining near the ceiling or in the attic area is often a sign that water is seeping in from outside, possibly through damaged shingles or flashing.
• Mold or Mildew: These are clear signs of water intrusion. Excess moisture can quickly create an environment for mold to thrive.
• Odors: Musty or wet smells in the attic or upper floors are warning signs that moisture has accumulated, potentially damaging the roof structure.

Inspecting the interior of your home helps you locate leaks early so that they don’t lead to larger problems like mold or mildew in your home.

4. Check for Clogged Gutters

One of the most overlooked parts of roof maintenance is cleaning out gutters. Clogged gutters are more than just a nuisance—they can cause significant damage to your roof and home. When gutters are obstructed, they don't allow water to flow properly off the roof. This leads to water pooling in areas where it shouldn’t be. Check gutters for debris like leaves, twigs, or moss, and clean them regularly. If water is overflowing from gutters, it’s a sign they are clogged.

5. Examine Flashing and Roof Vents

Flashing is the material installed around areas where the roof meets chimneys, vents, or skylights. Flashing prevents water from seeping into the seams, so it’s important to check for any signs of damage.

• Cracks or Gaps: If the flashing around chimneys, skylights, or vents has cracks or gaps, water can get through and leak into the structure beneath the roof.
• Corroded or Rusted Flashing: Over time, flashing can corrode, especially if it’s metal. This leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks.

Pay attention to how well the flashing is adhered to your roof; loose flashing is another sure sign of roof damage.

6. Identify Any Moss or Algae Growth

While moss or algae doesn’t immediately damage a roof, it can hold moisture against the shingles, accelerating wear and tear over time. If you notice green patches growing on your roof, it might be time to clean it off. Avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure washing, as these can cause further damage. Instead, gently scrub the area with a soft brush or hire a professional roof cleaning service.

When to Call the Pros

While performing a DIY roof inspection can help you catch some roof damage early, there are situations where you should always call in a roofing professional. These include:

• Roof Structural Damage: If you notice any sagging or significant warping in the roofline, or if your roof seems unstable, don't hesitate to call a professional. Structural problems can compromise the entire roof system and pose risks to the safety of your home.
• Severe Weather Events: If your area has recently experienced a heavy storm, hail, or high winds, it's always a good idea to have a professional roofer inspect your roof to ensure it’s in good condition.
• Complex Roof Features: Roofs with chimneys, skylights, or complex angles require specialized expertise to inspect thoroughly. If you're unsure about how to check these areas or if they're inaccessible, bring in a pro who can inspect all angles safely and thoroughly.
• Leaks That Won't Stop: If you've found leaks in your attic or upper floors and can't trace the source or fix it yourself, a professional roofer will have the equipment and experience to locate and repair the leak effectively.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my roof is damaged?

The most common signs of roof damage include missing or cracked shingles, dark spots, water stains on the ceilings, sagging rooflines, and mold or mildew growth in the attic.

2. How often should I inspect my roof?

You should inspect your roof at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. After heavy storms or extreme weather, inspect your roof for additional damage.

3. Can I repair my roof myself?

Minor repairs like replacing a few missing shingles can be done by homeowners with the right tools and safety precautions. However, larger issues, such as roof leaks or structural damage, should always be handled by a professional to ensure they are properly fixed.

Conclusion

DIY roof damage inspections are an effective way to catch potential problems early before they become major headaches. Whether you’re checking for missing shingles or inspecting the interior of your home for leaks, being proactive with roof maintenance can save you significant costs in the long run. However, some roof damage is difficult to spot, and complex issues require the expertise of a professional roofer. When in doubt, it's always best to call the pros to ensure your roof stays in top shape.

Taking care of your roof isn’t just about avoiding leaks—it's about keeping your home safe and secure for the long term. Perform regular roof inspections, and don't hesitate to call a professional when you spot something worrying.