With the spring just around the corner and another winter storm on its way to New England, it is hard not to think about the affect this wild weather is having on your home, particularly your roof.  The winter of 2013 had all of the usual suspects- snow, sleet, rain, heavy  winds but then there was Hurricane Sandy and the Blizzard of 2013 (Nemo).  It has been a crazy couple of month’s weather wise!

Why Inspect for Roof Damage?

A post-winter roof inspection is always a good idea because it allows you to catch potential weaknesses in your roof before they turn into damage inside your home.  While for many homeowners subscribe to the mentality that ignorance is bliss, ignorance in the home improvement world can get expensive.

Like many areas of your home, minor roof damage can turn into a large, expensive project within a short period of time.  With the spring rains coming, now is a great time to get your home’s roof looked at.

How to Inspect for Roof Damage

Worried about roof damage?   Fear not!  Here are 6 quick things to look for when performing a post-winter roof inspection:

• Roofing Shingles:  Check to see if any shingles have lifted, gone missing or if you have roofing granules in your yard.  All of these are signs that the shingles are starting to deteriorate and weaken, which can be a gateway for ice and water to enter your home.
• Ice Formations:  Ice is a tell tale sign that there is something wrong with your roof.  Ice can lift, pop and move shingles, compromising your home’s roofing system.  Ice Dams can also be an indication of inadequate attic insulation and/or roof insulation and venting.
• Irregular Roof Staining:  Has your roof taken on a few new colors?  This staining can be a sign that the nails under the roof are rusty.  While there are some roof cleaning companies that claim they can get the stains out, it is best to consult a professional to be sure there isn’t any further damage.  If the staining really is from algae, consult your asphalt shingle manufacturers for the best cleaning method (that won’t void your warranty).
• Loose, Detached or Cracked Flashing:  Flashing is the (typically) metal area around chimneys, skylights, pipes and other roofing protrusions.  Any damage to this allows water and water an entrance under your roof and into your home, causing water damage and rotting wood.
• Clogged Gutters:  Check to be sure your gutters are still clean.  This ensures that water and ice have a clean pathway off your roof.
• Ceiling Stains:  Ceiling stains mean that water has entered your home, typically through your attic and/or roofing system.  This should be looked at immediately before further damage is incurred.

What to do if there is roof damage?

If anything about your roof concerns you or if something has changed since the last time you looked at your roof, it is best to consult with a professional.  When it comes to your roof, small problems can escalate very quickly (and so can the bill) so it is best to get it checked out ASAP.

If you think your home’s roof may need to be replaced, schedule a post-winter roof inspection by calling us at 1-800-975-6666 or filling out our online form to the right.