One of the most important parts of owning a home is maintaining the roof. A roof protects a home from the elements and keeps everyone inside safe and dry. A major storm can undo this protection virtually overnight.
Additionally, it can create some not-so-noticeable damages that lead to bigger problems over time. In this article, we look at how to spot some of the storm damages that might have occurred the last time one blew through your area.
Be extra careful if attempting to survey the damages on your own. Doing so is potentially dangerous, and there’s a high likelihood of overlooking important signs. When in doubt, trust a professional!
Inspect your roof for visible damage
Inspecting a roof for damage is simple enough in theory, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy or without risk. It requires one to wear sturdy shoes with good traction. You’ll need a ladder tall enough to reach the highest point of the roof. You’ll also need a spotter in case something goes wrong.
Inspecting the roof for damage can help you identify potential problems early and avoid more serious issues down the road, but it also places you at risk of slips, falls, and potentially fatal injuries. Never do it alone.
While you’re up there, you’ll need to look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles. Look for any cracks or holes in the roof. Check out the attic as well. If you see any daylight coming through, that’s a problem. You’ll also want to look for leaks around chimneys, skylights, and vents.
Don’t forget your gutters and eaves
Gutters and eaves protect your home from the elements. Gutters are typically located at the edges of a roof and are used to channel rainwater away from the structure. This helps to prevent damage caused by moisture buildup and erosion.
Eaves are long overhangs along the sides of a house. They serve a similar purpose but also help to shade walls from intense sunlight. Both gutters and eaves can become damaged over time as they accumulate debris or sustain other types of wear and tear.
Common signs of damage include loose gutters or sagging eavestroughs, as well as leaking or cracked joints. In some cases, dripping water may be present. Other more uncommon signs could include watermarks on exterior walls or even cracks in interior drywall.
So if you’re concerned about your home’s gutters and eaves, it’s important to pay close attention to any sign of trouble. With regular maintenance, however, these essential parts of your home should last for years to come.
Assess the condition of your roofing material
Assessing the condition of your roofing material can be a bit tricky, particularly if you don’t have a lot of experience with these types of systems. One common approach involves taking a close look at the surface for any signs of wear or damage. This would include things like discoloration, warping, or bubbling.
Another important factor to consider is the material that’s under your roofing system. It should last 15-20 years, so know when it was installed and pay close attention if you notice something out of kilter. Finally, be mindful of any potential hazards associated with your roofing system (e.g., loose branches or other debris that could pose a risk during storms).
Some homeowners have invested in drones to inspect roofs or survey potential storm damage remotely. This isn’t the best of ideas. While a marvel of modern consumer technology, drones are ineffective at assessing roofing materials due to their relatively poor visibility and range.
Most aerial drones simply aren’t able to get close enough or remain in place long enough to thoroughly examine a roofing system. Instead, professional contractors typically rely on more traditional methods like inspections from the ground level and rappelling to evaluate the condition of their roofs. An understanding of the key factors that affect your roof will help you make more informed assessments and ensure optimal performance over time, and for that, it’s better to trust a professional.
A few more things to keep in mind
Missing or displaced shingles are some of the more obvious signs of storm damage. If you see shingles in your yard or on your roof, it’s a good indication that your roof has been damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced.
Flashing, skylights, chimneys, and vents are also vulnerable to storm damage. If you see any of these elements lying on the ground or hanging loose, it’s a good idea to call a professional for an inspection.
Damaged flashing can allow water to enter your home, while damaged skylights and chimneys can create a dangerous hole in your roof. Vents can also be blown off in high winds, allowing water and debris to enter the structure.
Trust roofing professionals with your safety and property
Just because you could do something yourself doesn’t mean you should. That’s especially true when your home, safety, and family could suffer as a result. Don’t take unnecessary risks.
Molandes Roofing has helped many homeowners over the years after many violent storms to assess damages and make the proper response to repair or replace them. We’re here to help you as well! Call us today if you’re concerned about your roof.