Inspecting Your Roof for Signs of Damage

It’s always a good idea to check your roof for any signs of damage after an extreme weather event like a hailstorm. Left unattended, seemingly minor leaks can cause further damage to your roof. Easton Roofing, one of the top commercial roofing contractors in the state, gives you some tips on inspecting your roof.

Interior Inspection 

After the hailstorm has passed, inspect the interior of your home first.

• Check the attic. Due to its proximity to the roof, any signs of damage will be visible there. Look for leaks during the day. That way, the sunlight passing through the leaks will help you easily locate the holes.

• If you don’t find any leaks, use a flashlight to look for signs of moisture damage, such as dark stains or sagging in the ceiling.

Exterior Inspection  

After inspecting the interior, you can take a stroll around your backyard to see if the wind blew tiles off your roof. If you see any shingles on the ground or any cracked ones on your roofing, replace them immediately.

You should be able to see damage on your roof even from ground level. In particular, keep an eye out for the following:

• Debris – The blunt force of the wind can cause damage by blowing off parts of your roof, but it can inflict more damage via flying debris. Even a seemingly harmless tree limb can cause significant damage by scratching protective granules off shingles.

• Dark patches on your roof – You’ll know if the shingles’ granules were loosened if you see dark patches on your residential or commercial roofing system. Without these granules, shingles are exposed to sunlight and the elements. Over time, cracks may form on the asphalt beneath as it succumbs to natural wear and tear.

To conduct a thorough inspection, you need to see the roof up close using a ladder. Make sure to prioritize your safety while inspecting your roof. Take note of the weather conditions; do not climb a ladder in inclement weather conditions.

If you do decide to inspect your roof using a ladder, look for the following:

• Loose nails – These are signs parts of your roof won’t be able to endure strong winds and heavy rain for long.

• Gutter debris – Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams during the colder months.

If you’re still looking for a contractor to inspect your roofing system, hire a qualified one like Easton Roofing. To get a free consultation, call (785) 246-9449, or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Kansas City.