Most people don’t really think about the roof over their heads… until it springs a leak! Don’t wait until water is pouring through the ceiling to pay attention to your roof. As a homeowner, you should perform a regular roof inspection twice a year, in the spring and fall, to make sure your roof is healthy. Make sure you remove debris from rooftops, drains, gutters and downspouts, and at the same time, check for signs of damage. Not sure what those signs might be? We compiled a list of a few things to look for that might indicate you need a roof repair or a new roof!

Start Inside

The first place to check is your attic, not the exterior of the roof, which is where a lot of people would think to begin. Look for beams of light coming through the top of the house or any staining or streaking in the attic. These things could signal a leaky roof!

Home Records

Knowing when your roof was last replaced or re-shingled (and what your roof is made of) offers insight into how much life a roof has left. A typical asphalt shingle roof should last an average of 20-25 years, while a roof that was installed over an existing layer of shingles should be replaced after 20 years. Reviewing your home improvement records or records from when you bought your home (especially the home inspection report) should give you insight into how much life your roof has left.

Check Your Shingles!

Keep an eye on your rooftop to make sure its in good shape, especially after heavy storms. Shingles should lie flat against the roof; if you find patches that are cracked, damaged, or buckling, then repairs are in order. While you're at it, check the gutters and downspouts for shingle granules—a roof that is losing a lot of granules may be at the end of its useful life.

The Flashing

The flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Examine these points make sure there are no cracks or breaks, which could lead to leaks. In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it's a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability.

Sagging or Rotting Roofs

A droopy, sagging roof is one that needs replacing before further damage occurs to your home. Check the surface for signs of trapped moisture, rotting boards, or sagging spots—especially at the lowest points in the roof. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to call a roofer immediately!

Unwanted Houseplants

Moss on a roof spells trouble. Moss (and molds and fungi) indicate there may be trapped moisture, and while it’ll start with just some added greenery on your roof, it can quickly lead to rot and damage. To do away with moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush, but be careful to address any underlying problems.

The Most Important Thing: Don’t Panic!

Just because you have a few damaged shingles or a bit of a leak, don’t automatically assume that you need a whole new roof. If your roof has been properly installed and is younger than 15 or 20 years old, it may get by with repairs rather than a full replacement. When in doubt, contact a licensed roofing contractor to get a professional opinion.