AMERICAN HOME IMPROVEMENT’S SPRING ROOF INSPECTION CHECKLIST

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With winter winding down and spring just around the corner, homeowners are wise to do a roofing inspection to determine if their roof was damaged winter’s ice, snow, winds, or cold temperatures.  Based on their nearly 60 years in the business, American Home Improvements has compiled a simple, three-point outside and inside checklist to help homeowners properly evaluate the condition of their roof and prevent lasting (and potentially expensive) damage to their homes.

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#1 - Roof Inspection

Note: It may require a ladder to get up on your roof. If so, be sure to take the appropriate safety precautions or engage a roofing professional who can do the inspection in a safe manner. Check for all of the following:

•             Missing, damaged or worn shingles; this could include excessive granule loss

•             Loose or exposed nails or missing caulk

•             Missing, damaged or rusty metal flashing

•             Any sagging areas

Any of these problems should be immediately addressed to avoid further structural damage to your home.

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#2 - Gutter Inspection and Cleaning

While you’re up there, take the time to inspect and clean your gutters. If they are clogged, your gutters can create serious problems for your roof. Look for leaves, twigs, and other debris that can clog the gutters in the fall, then winter ice, snow and rain can damage your roof, or back up to the point of causing water damage in your home. Again, careful, safe use of a ladder is important. You can use gloves and a bucket to remove the big stuff then run a hose through your gutters and down your downspouts to make sure that they are running completely free. Once the gutters are clean you can examine them for any damage or leaks. Damaged gutters need to be repaired or replaced right away, so water can flow freely through the gutters and away from your home.

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#3 - Attic Inspection

Now you should head indoors and check things out from inside your attic. Be careful getting up there and bring a good flash light to look for any cracked roof sheathing, sagging roof beams, any light coming through cracks, or signs of water leaks.

Take note of any damage you see and arrange for repairs to be made as soon as possible by a qualified professional. This will help to insure your roof can do its job of properly protecting your home from water damage, mold, as well as critters of all kinds.

Take good care of your roof and your roof will take care of you!