Now’s the Time for a Spring Roof Inspection
Wondering what toll the winter took on your roof? Right now is a great time for a spring roof inspection that will tell you just that.
What Happens to Roofs in Winter
Rain, snow, ice and wind have an effect on your roof’s asphalt shingles by wearing away at the granules. This is a normal process, however excessive wear is a sign that your shingles may not last much longer. Additionally, a condition called ice damming can cause problems including leaks. Ice damming can occur when snow on a rooftop melts and refreezes. During the process, heat loss from your roof melts snow. When temperatures fall below freezing, ice forms from the melted snow most often at the edge of the roof under the snow. When additional heat loss from the roof melts the ice, the concentration of water that has no place to go can seep under the shingles, and into your home.
What to Look For
An inspection of your home’s attic is a good place to start when looking for signs of damage from ice damming. Look for dark areas, signs of water trails and mold. Check ceilings for signs of paint discoloration, bubbling or peeling paint and sagging.
Outside of your home, check your gutters for an excessive amount of roof shingle granules – a sign that your shingles may not be holding up. Be sure to clean out any build-up of granules and debris in your gutters to help prevent damage from gutter overflow. On your roof, look for loose or missing shingles, or shingles that are curling or buckling, all of which put your roof at risk for leaks.
When to Call a Pro
If you have concerns about your roof it is best to call a trusted professional roofing contractor to assess whether or not your roof is in need of repair or replacement. Look for a roofing contractor that will provide an honest assessment – one that will tell you how long you have before your roof is at risk, not simply try to sell you a new roof because you asked for an inspection. Check places like Angie’s List and The Better Business Bureau for roofing contractor reviews, and talk to your neighbors to see if they have had any experience with local contractors. While a roof inspection might cost a little, it goes a long way in easing your mind and keeping your home safe and sound.
S&K Roofing, Siding and Windows provides roof inspection services as well as roofing repairs and roof replacements. Contact us today at 866-836-7663 for your spring roof inspection, or click here to schedule an estimate.