How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?
It’s no secret that replacing your roof can be a significant financial investment. Ideally, spending thousands of dollars on a roof means it should last the life of your home.
However, a roof isn’t the type of thing where you can “set it and forget it.” To achieve its maximum lifespan, there’s maintenance involved, including annual roof inspections.
Have you ever wondered how often you should inspect your roof? You’re in the right place. Rescue My Roof has served southeastern Wisconsin for over a decade, helping educate homeowners through roof replacement.
In this article, we’re going over how often to inspect your roof. Ultimately, you’ll know exactly what to do to keep your roof in top-notch shape.
Why Should You Inspect Your Roof?
Your roof naturally faces general wear and tear because of its exposure to the elements. However, it’s essential to inspect your roof, at a minimum, once a year.
Inspecting your roof annually ensures that you catch minor problems before they become roof emergencies. Through annual inspections, you can catch issues like leaks, missing shingles, and more in time to get them repaired.
How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?
While the industry average is once yearly, Rescue My Roof recommends twice yearly – especially if you live in climates like Wisconsin’s.
Wisconsin faces all types of weather, from hot and humid summers to frigid winters. With the temperature changes, Wisconsin roofs are prone to contract and expand. Additionally, Wisconsin roofs have to handle a lot of snow and ice, putting more strain on the roof.
This is why we recommend inspecting your roof twice yearly: once in the fall before it has to endure the winter and once in the spring after the snow has melted.
You can gauge how much wear and tear your roof has sustained and can do the necessary repairs before winter strikes again.
Inspecting Your Roof After A Storm
Annual inspections are necessary, but it’s also essential that you inspect your roof after a storm.
Storm, wind, and hail damage can decrease your roof’s integrity. Shingles may be blown off, hail hits might crack or dent your shingles, or leaks can occur.
Catch the issues before they become a bigger problem by inspecting your roof.
How to Inspect Your Roof
Not every homeowner can climb around on their roof (especially safely). But you don’t have to conquer a fear of heights to inspect your roof.
You can walk your home’s perimeter and inspect your roof adequately. Keep an eye out for:
- Visible Flashing
- Curling or Cupping Shingles
- Missing Shingles
- Cracked Shingles
- Granule Loss
- Algae Growth
- Hail Damage
- Sagging
- Blocked ventilation
Many of these issues can be combated by calling a professional to replace missing or damaged shingles before water can find a way into your home.
However, some more severe problems like sagging can result in a roof replacement. That is why it is best to call in an inspector so they can accurately diagnose the issue.
Your roof takes the most damage in the winter. So after a long season of snowfall and ice, inspect your roof to keep it in the best shape possible.
What If I Want to Climb On My Roof?
Following safety protocols are essential if you want to do a thorough roof inspection by getting up on your roof.
There is a fall risk anytime you step on your roof, so make sure you are always wearing a safety helmet and proper PPE.
Additionally, you can purchase a fall kit from home improvement stores like Home Depot. They come with a harness and ropes that you can hook onto an anchor. If you fall, you won’t tumble to the ground.
Making Sure Your Roof Lasts a Lifetime
Your roof is not only a significant investment, but it provides safety for your home. You make sure your roof is in the best shape to protect your home and family by doing repairs when needed and inspecting your roof.
Inspecting your roof twice a year and after any storms will help you catch problems before they grow and will keep your roof in top-notch shape to maximize its lifespan.
Continue your roofing education with our article “6 Signs Your Gutters Need to be Replaced.”
Have you noticed any signs of needing repairs or want to call in an expert to inspect your roof and live in the greater Milwaukee area? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.