Roof inspections are critical at any time of the year because your roof can take a beating during any season. For example, the frigid and brutal winter weather can cause even more unforeseen damage if it took a pounding in the fall and summer. Therefore, this is why it is important to have it inspected during the late fall or early winter before the harsher weather hits the area.
If it is well into the winter season and you haven’t had your (old) roof inspected yet, it’s time to pick up the phone and call someone.
In fact, if you don’t have it checked for leaks, you should keep in mind that the snow and ice that sits on top of your home in the winter can prevent other precipitation from draining off of your roof. This often happens when ice dams form on your roof during the winter. These ice dams can cause water to get stuck, infiltrate your shingles, and then seep into your home. Leaks might then be evident by the appearance of new water stains or growing water stains on ceilings and walls.
During a winter roof inspection, a contractor will walk around the outside and inside of your home and then assess its conditions, as well as check for a variety of potential problems that might have occurred over the fall and summer season, including:
- Moisture damage to shingles: curling, cracking and blistering point to worn shingles.
- Wind damage: can result in missing or broken tiles.
- Leakage in your home.
- Gutter damage: results from heavy wind and rain.
- Staining and streaking: causes mold and mildew.
- Loose flashing or seals.
Depending on the size, age, and present conditions of your roof, a winter inspection can take as little as up to a half hour for the average home.
In the end, the ultimate way to avoid any problems during the winter is to stop them before they have a chance to begin. Plus, by addressing the smallest of problems early, you can extend the life of all of the exterior components of your home, and save money on unnecessary replacement costs. Last, but not least, it is suggested that it be checked at least one time a year to help guarantee that it is doing its job—protecting your home and family. But, remember, if you have your roof inspected and attend to repairs in the fall and/or early winter, this will prevent further complications as the temperatures decline and the winter ice and snow arrive!
