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Checking Your Roof for Damage

How Often to Inspect Your Roof

It is important to regularly check your roof. An annual inspection is generally adequate. However unforeseen circumstance such as storms with heavy downpours, high winds wind or large hail, may require you to increase frequency of maintenance. With the following tips, you can check your roof, and have some peace of mind.

Inspect Your Roof for This Damage

Occasionally, signs of roof damage are obvious. These usually present as missing shingles, loose metal or a visible leak indoors. Here is an overview of red flags to watch for and address:

Most homeowners’ policies cover roof damages from acts of God, but Idaho homeowners should check their specific policy for coverage relating to storm damage, their rights and responsibilities, depreciation and deductible information. Sudden leaks and unexpected damage are included in standard structural coverage.

Checking your roof for damages is one responsibility for homeowners that can be a little intimidating. However, with routine maintenance you can save both time and money by preserving the life of your roof.

Loose Metal

Areas of loose metal should be addressed to avoid further damage, even if it is not currently the source of a leak.

Shingles

Look for areas of lifted, deteriorating or missing shingles. This can be done from the ground, with binoculars, if you are uncomfortable on a ladder or in high areas. Any areas where the shingles are becoming warped are at risk of allowing water in.

Debris

Leaves and debris piling up in the valleys of the roof should also be removed to prevent prolonged saturation.

Gutters

The sand like granules on the shingles work as a barrier from the sun’s UV rays. Checking your gutters and downspouts for grit or sand is a good way to see if the shingles are breaking down and becoming less effective. You should be aware of the warranty and life expectancy of your roofing material.

Miscellaneous

Address any areas of cracked caulking, the appearance of rust, any spot that looks depressed or any areas growing moss.