A well-maintained roof protects a home from weather, wear and tear. It’s one of the most important investments homeowners can make.

A roof inspection can nip extensive damage in the bud. From inspecting shingles for sagging and discoloration to looking for leaks inside the house, there are many small indicators that can lead to major problems. Visit https://www.corpuschristiroofingco.com/ to learn more.

Flashing is a critical component of any roof because it keeps water from seeping into the home. It’s especially important to make sure the flashing around chimneys, vents and other rooftop structures is well-maintained. Ideally, you should inspect the flashing on a regular basis to prevent minor problems from escalating into major ones.

Flashing typically consists of a sheet of metal that’s wrapped around the area where a wall or roof meets to form a tight seal. It also may include a strip of flexible material such as plastic or rubber. In many cases, a flashing piece is secured into place by nails or screws and then covered with roofing cement. Over time, it can become loose or deformed, which allows water to penetrate the roof. Checking the flashing for signs of rust, cracks and other damage is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home from leaks.

You can usually see flashing from the ground, but you should also look at it during a roof inspection. If the flashing is rusty or damaged, it should be replaced. Also, look for a gap between the flashing and the wall or roof. This is another sign of a potential leak.

Another thing to look for is raised nail or screw heads in the flashing. This is a common problem that happens over time as the metal of the flashing flexes and moves. The raised screw or nail heads will let water in when it rains.

It’s also a good idea to look at the caulking around the flashing for signs of cracking or chipping. This is a common problem that can lead to water infiltration. It’s a good idea to re-caulk around the flashing at least every two years.

The best way to examine the flashing on a roof is from a ladder. If you don’t have a ladder or you can’t reach the flashing easily, you should call a professional for help. A good contractor can take a close look at the flashing to make sure it’s secure and properly terminated, which will help prevent roof leaks.

Inspect the Attic

The attic is a vital part of the roof’s structure, providing support and serving as a thermal barrier. If it’s insulated properly, your home can be more energy efficient. Inspecting the attic can also reveal a number of issues that are not as obvious from below.

The first thing to do is look for signs of moisture in the attic. Moisture can indicate a problem with the insulation or the roof structure. Look for sagging areas of the ceiling, which can signify a serious issue. Also check for water stains on the sheathing and framing. If the staining is recent, a leak may be present. Check the attic ventilation area, ductwork, and any vent stacks that extend through the roof. All exhaust ducts should terminate outside, but Cooper says that many homeowners incorrectly install them in the attic, which can cause problems.

Make sure the attic is well ventilated, as this can reduce heat in the living space below. It can also help prevent ice dams.

Another important inspection item is to look for the attic’s insulation. It should be a minimum of 13 to 18 inches thick, and it should be completely in place without gaps or holes.

When inspecting the attic, use extreme caution and wear a dust mask and a hard hat or cap. The attic can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter, and it may contain a variety of pests including bats, birds, squirrels, raccoons, mice and bees. The attic can also be uneven and cluttered with materials and junk. In addition, the joists may be exposed, which can be dangerous for an untrained person.

A professional should conduct a full attic inspection. An inspector can see things that you might miss, such as animal droppings or nests and the state of the shingles. They can also use a thermal camera to spot temperature differences, which can identify poorly insulated areas and places where air infiltrates from the exterior. A professional should also evaluate the air-vapor barriers, ductwork and the plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems.

Clean the Gutters

Gutter cleaning is a key component to roof maintenance, because without it, your gutters can become clogged with debris. When this happens, water is unable to flow from the roof and backs up into the house and can cause damage. A gutter that is not cleaned regularly can also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which in turn can lead to the spread of diseases like West Nile and Zika.

Whether you’re cleaning your own gutters or hiring a professional to do it for you, this is a task that should be done frequently. As a general rule, you should clean your gutters once a year and more often during times when leaves fall off the trees. A regular inspection of the gutters can help you prevent clogs from occurring in the first place.

If you decide to do the job yourself, make sure to work on a day when there is no risk of rain, high winds, snow or ice. It’s also a good idea to have a spotter with you while you’re on the ladder to help keep you safe.

When cleaning the gutters, start by removing any large pieces of debris that are stuck in them. You should then use a ladder that’s positioned so that you are able to get up close to the gutter to clean out the gunk. This is a messy job and it’s a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from the elements.

After you’ve removed all the gunk and other debris from your gutters, check that the downspouts are clear. This will prevent the gunk from reclogging them during the next rainfall. Finally, spray the gutters with a hose to remove any remaining debris.

You should also inspect the gutters for signs of rust and holes. These can eventually cause leaks and lead to further issues with your roof. If you notice any holes, you should patch them immediately to avoid further leaking and other problems down the road.

Inspect the Roof Structure

A roof needs to be structurally sound to withstand the elements and keep your home protected. If a part of the roof structure is damaged, it can lead to water leaks and damage inside. The inspector will inspect the rafters, joists, and decking for damage or weakness. They will also look for signs of moisture such as rust or rot. They will also check the integrity of the shingles and look for cracks, dents, missing granules, and curling. If the shingles are curled, they can allow water to enter your home.

Roofing contractors inspect the condition of a roof during construction to ensure it meets building codes and is built correctly. Once a roof is completed, it’s important to continue with regular inspections. During these inspections, the inspector looks for missing or damaged shingles, leaky skylights and chimneys, loose roof flashing, and debris that may have accumulated. The inspector will also check the gutter system for blockage and examine the venting in the attic to make sure it is working properly.

When the weather is bad, a professional roofer will walk across your entire roof to look for signs of damage, including holes, dents, or missing shingles. They will also look for signs of moisture damage in the attic or upper floors of your home, such as mold, mildew, and water stains.

If the inspector finds any problem, they will advise you of the necessary repairs. They will give you a written report with pictures of any areas of concern. They will also provide you with a list of recommended maintenance tasks and an estimate for the cost of the repairs. The cost of a professional roof inspection will depend on the type of roof and its size. Most inspectors offer a flat fee, but the price will increase for a larger roof or more complex problems. A reputable inspection company will be licensed and insured to protect their customers. They should also offer a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with their services. It’s always a good idea to get multiple estimates from a few different companies before making a decision.