DIY Roof Inspection
The roof over your head is a protection of your home from the elements year round. It has to withstand the vagaries of weather – sun, rain, and wind. You can identify problems on your roof early by carrying out this basic do-it-yourself (DIY) home roof inspection brought to you by Ranger Roofing of Oklahoma, the top local roofing contractor in Tulsa, OK. This way you will address them in time before they worsen to require massive repair at a higher cost.
Safety Tips for DIY Roof Inspection
A roof inspection is a simple exercise, which would take you an hour. You, however, need to avoid all the inherent risks by observing some safety tips, including:
Alert Someone
Alert someone – a family member, neighbor, etc. – that you will be up on the roof so that in case anything was to happen to you, they would be in a position to help you.
Have a Safety Harness
Whenever you climb onto your roof, use a safety harness or belt with a lifeline attached to a strong structure such as the base of the chimney. The harness will catch you in case you slip, preventing you from falling to the ground and being injured.
Install the Ladder Properly
Install the ladder properly to ensure it is stable both at the bottom and on your roof.
Climb and Move Slowly
Climb up and down the ladder as well as across the roof slowly and deliberately to avoid slips and falls.
Prepare Well
Prepare in advance taking into account any tools – crowbar, hammer, nails/screws, etc. you will need once you are up on the roof to avoid the disappointment of coming down for them after climbing up.
Respect the Weather
Monitor the weather conditions because rain or snow could render the ladder and roof too slippery for your DIY roof inspection. A warm and sunny day is ideal for an inspection.
Know Your Ability
Accept that you are not a professional roofer so know your ability and limits. Do not push your limits and put yourself at the risk of being injured.
The Inspection
DIY inspection does not mean you will be walking all over your roof. Instead, follow a plan and mix physical examination with an observation of certain areas from a distance.
Key Concerns You Should Search for
Shingles
Check out for shingles that are curling or blistering, missing or broken, which will require replacement.
Grit in the Gutters
In case you notice a pile of grit, which should be protecting your shingles from the sun’s strong rays, in the gutters, they may be coming from your shingles. You may have to replace all of your tiles. By coming off, they are weakening your roof.
Flashing
Any rust spots or cracked caulking surrounding your flashing will require you to re-caulk old caulk and replace worn flashing.
Rubber Boots
If you notice them near any puncture spots on your roof such as vent pipes, it means there is a rubber piece to keep water from getting in. Over time, these can age and crack, meaning they need to be replaced.
Moss or Lichen
If you see patches of moss or lichen, it is a red flag for you because it means there is a moisture accumulation and even rotting just under your roof. Black algae are harmless because they are just a surface problem you can wash off easily.
Record
Record carefully any damage you notice on your roof so that you can plan how to carry out a DIY repair or enlist the services of a professional. Remember, be safe and know your limits!
