We have three most important basic needs, it’s food, water, and a ROOF above your head. For most Homeowners, Roofs should not be taken for granted. It may often be overlooked but it is your biggest investment. So regular inspection should be a part of homeownership. Roofs are not easy to inspect and homeowners don’t usually think about it, until damages that are left unnoticed become a bigger problem. “If it’s not broken, then don’t need to fix it,”... right? WRONG! Regular inspection and maintenance is a good practice of owning a home.
Let’s all face the fact that no matter where in the world you live, Snow in the West and snowfall with long wintertime in the Midwest, you will still experience high winds, rain or even fire. This means lots of moisture and wet precipitation will be in the roofs for a very long time. So when the storm hits your home, that’s where you realize that your roof has damaged more than you expected (shingles are broken and missing). That’s why it is recommended and strongly suggested that you get your roof checked and inspected at least twice a year to make sure that it is kept in top condition.
PREVENTING DAMAGE BEFORE IT HAPPENS
If your roof is leaking, it doesn’t mean your roof is damaged. Sometimes, it will tell you that you may have structural problems or issues with your insulation alongside your
leaking roof. Getting it inspected is always an important solution. Your selected Contractor will be able to detect the extent of the damage and suggest a solution before it wrecks your entire home. Cost or spending a bit out of your budget in getting your roof inspected is not bad, compared to spending at one time and will cost you your life’s savings.
HOW YOU CAN INSPECT YOUR ROOF
Like I mentioned, we recommend getting your roof inspected twice a year. You, on the other hand, can also check your roof especially after a severe weather event like hail and windstorm. But remember, it is of great importance to have a thorough and proper inspection especially when you file an Insurance claim for these damages.
Here are some tips you may need:
Take a walk around your home. Check for physical damages, loose or broken shingles. Binoculars if available are very helpful.
Take a close look at spots with moss, algae, or piles of leaves. Moisture usually builds up causing more damages underneath.
Look for missing, damaged, cracked, severed, or aged shingles. Damage shingles are the main cause of roof damage. Missing patches of shingles are the cause of why water enters your home. Be on a lookout
Check shingles closely to see if the granules are missing. If the granules are missing, your shingles may need to be replaced.
Look for shingles that are buckled, curled, or warped. In warm weather, hot air in the attic can seep into the ceiling and cause your shingles to buckle.
Get into your attic, if possible, and look for signs of water penetration underneath the roof.
But if you are not really comfortable getting up into your roof or don’t want to just assume if there are damages, then you may need to call your selected Roofing Company and have someone inspect it as soon as you can. The sooner you call a roofing contractor, the sooner you can start the claims process with your insurance company.
Maintaining your home’s roof is important. The next time you think you may need to have someone come out and help you feel free to contact us.
MELVYN HUCKABY
Lead Claims Consultant, IICRC Certified
APRIL C
Office Manager