How to Do a Roof Inspection Yourself: Step-by-Step Guide

The roof is the one that takes care of the house, the things, and the people inside. But most of the time, a silent guard is maintained, but its heavy work is not right of homeowners. Consequently, roof inspection services are similar to the check-up of your body. It provides you with the first signs of something being wrong with the house so that you can fix them before they become bigger. 

In this blog, you will become familiar with the safe inspection method, the signs of a damaged roof, the moment when you have to seek professional help, and the reason why good roofing inspection services are so important.

Things to Do Before You Start a Roof Inspection

Before going up a ladder or onto your roof, you have to make some preparations. These simple steps not only make your inspection safer but also more efficient.

• Pick a Dry, Calm Day that is Suitable

You need to be able to see very well in minimal wind conditions. Water in the air, strong winds, and icy surfaces increase the chances of accidents, and at the same time, they cover the root of the problems.

• Gather the right tools and safety equipment.

Safety goggles, gloves, shoes with a good grip, a ladder you can trust, a torch, and something to take pictures with (smartphone or camera). If the thought of being high up or losing your balance gives you anxiety, then I suggest you hire professionals for the roofing inspection services.

• Plan Your Inspection Route

It is like planning a walk. Decide where you will start, how you will move, and which areas you will not miss: such as edges, valleys, places near the chimney, etc.

Step-by-Step DIY Roof Inspection

Once you are prepared and in a secure place, the following are the steps to properly perform an inspection.

Step 1: Visual Inspection from the Ground

Walk around your house and see if you can spot:

• The shingles that are missing, cracked, or curling
• The parts of the roofline that appear to be sagging
• The discoloration or stains on siding that are located under the edges of the roof
• The potential accumulation of debris in gutters or downspouts

Photos from this stage are great for documenting the progression of damage and for sharing with service providers during later visits.

Step 2: Inspect the Roof Coverings and Surface

When you are on the roof:

• Investigate the condition of the shingles, tiles, or other roofing material, and see if there are any that are broken, curled, or missing
• Try to spot the growth of weeds and fungi or the presence of dark streaks that might be a source of moisture and, in the end, lead to the decay of the material
• Look closely at ridges lines, hips, and the roof’s angles, as these are the parts that suffer the most from the weather

Step 3: Examine Flashing, Seals & Vents

Common causes of roof leaks are metal flashing and seals around the chimney, vents, and skylights, which tend to fail first.

• Search for the places where there are rust, gaps, loose, or missing pieces of flashing
• Cracking and/or peeling should not be present in the sealant; at the very least, a tight seal should be provided.
• Vent covers should be tightly connected and sealed to prevent the intrusion of water and/or pests.

Step 4: Inspect Gutters, Downspouts & Drainage

There is an absolute need for proper drainage to avoid water getting into the house through leaks under the foundation or in the attic, etc.

• First of all, remove the leaves, debris, and other blockages from the gutters, and then check the exhaust part to see if it is blocked or not.
• Make sure that the water coming through the downspouts diverts away from the foundation of the house.
• Look for stains caused by overflow on the boards of the fascia or the edges of the roof

Step 5: Interior Check (Attic / Ceilings)

Do not neglect the interior part of the house:

• Inspection for water stains and/or damp spots on the attic ceilings and walls should only be done using a flashlight.
• Check the state of the insulation; it looks compressed, damp, or mouldy. There is a high probability of roof leaks
• The ventilation system is of great importance: if the air is not able to circulate, then there will be moisture building up, which will not only shorten the life of the roof but also cause health problems for the inhabitants of the house.

Step 6: Record Everything

Collect the evidence of what you find:

• Take as many photos and videos as you can from different perspectives.
• Be very descriptive of the points on the map (e.g., near chimney / over garage)
• Write a detailed description of the damage (size, type, whether it is an active leak or an old stain)

This is a very important dossier if, later on, you are going to need to show it to a professional to get a quote, warranty, or insurance.

Step 7: Descend Safely and Plan Next Steps

After you are done:

• Get off the ladder in a secure way that is in accordance with the safety rules for the use of the ladder.
• Go through your notes/photos, and decide which problems you can fix on your own and which ones need the assistance of a professional.
• In case the damage is severe and/or you find hidden damage, you should set a date for a professional roof inspection service.

Common Problems Found in Roof Inspections

The first clear indication of a roofing inspection is the discovery of the following issues:

• Loose, damaged, or missing shingles or tiles.
• Flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights is worn or rusty.
• Moss, algae, mold, or mildew growth accelerates rotting.
• Poor attic ventilation leading to condensation or damp insulation.
• Water damage visible from inside (ceiling stains, sagging boards).
• Gutters that are clogged, drainage that is done inappropriately.

Benefits of Regular Roofing Inspection

When you commit to conducting the inspection on a regular basis, you will benefit in the following ways:

• Problem detection at an early stage that saves money.
• The lifespan of roofing materials extends.
• Leak damage inside the walls or ceilings can be prevented.
• Energy efficiency improves; there is less heat loss or gain.
• One can be more relaxed.

Last Wordings 

If your intention is to keep your house safe and make it easier to live in, then you must be very proactive when it comes to taking care of the roof. When you feel that the problem is out of your hand, going for a roof inspection near me will locate qualified experts for you. The regular check-ups are an aid in preventing expensive repairs, making the roof last a long time, and giving your family a feeling of security.

About DSS Roofing 

DSS Roofing is the right place if you are looking for complete roof inspection services. It fits your home’s needs. Our skilled team guarantees that they inspect every roof in-depth for long-lasting safety and good functionality. From a regular check to an emergency repair, we promise to keep your house safe always. Give us a call today to plan your expert roof inspection services and let your investment be safe.