DIY Roof Inspection Checklist for Homeowners

Roofs problems are typically not catastrophic disasters. Instead, it typically starts with one’s missing shingle, with gutters that get clogged, with cracks in the flashing, or with a little leak that doesn’t make too much of a noise until it becomes a big problem. Which is why doing it yourself might be the right answer for the homeowner to consider if he wants to save time, stress and money with a roof inspection. 

The following DIY Roof Inspection Checklist for Homeowners will help you to check your roof! 

Why Homeowners Should Inspect Their Roof Regularly

Your roof keeps everything safe below it: the roof tiles, the ceiling below, walls, lighting, furniture and anything else! An annual inspection twice a year can alert you to damage before it gets worse during heavy rain, snow, hot weather, or wind.

Regularly check your roof in the wake of storms, heavy winds, hail and falling trees. Any seemingly minor damage can become a leak issue if it’s not taken care of. 

Safety First: Do Not Take Unnecessary Risks

Don’t confuse a “do-it-yourself roof inspection” with a person climbing up on a roof. Most of the time, a person can examine for the important warning signs on the ground with binoculars, or from within the attic.

Do not walk on wet, steep, damaged or moss covered roof. Don’t lean ladders against gutters because this will bend or loosen the ladders. If a roofing installation appears to be unsafe, stop and call a professional roofer. 

Exterior DIY Roof Inspection Checklist

1. Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles

Wear cracked, curled, loose, raised, or completely missing shingles. Exposed underlayment resulting from damaged shingles can make the roofing system a spongy mess and also permit water into the roof system.

Look for uneven spots or coloured or textured differences. These can be signs of previous repairs, aging of materials or storm damage. 

2. Inspect Flashing Around Roof Openings

Flashing is the sheet metal that is mounted around chimneys, venting, skylights, and around the edge of the roof. It provides a pathway for water to move away from particularly sensitive areas.

Inspect for lack of sealant, for gaps, cracks, or for rust or loose edges. The leading cause of roof leaks is flashing issues. 

3. Look at Gutters and Downspouts

Your gutters should be clear, secure and water spilling away from your home. Check for: 

• Leaves, dirt, and roof granules
• Sagging or detached gutter sections
• Water stains on siding
• Downspouts draining too close to the foundation

4. Check for Moss, Algae, or Debris

Moisture can be retained against the roof surface by moss and piles of leaves may block the drainage. Trim away “hanging” branches and clear away debris where possible.

Don’t use pressure washing to remove dirt from shingles as it can wreck the roofing surface. 

Interior Roof Inspection Checklist

1. Inspect the Attic

On sunny days, go into the attic and search for: 

• Water stains on wood
• Damp insulation
• Moldy smells
• Sunlight coming through roof boards
• Dark streaks near vents or chimneys

Leaks, ventilation or roof decking problems could be the causes of these signs. 

2. Check Ceilings and Walls

Within the house, inspect for stains or peeling paint, bubbling plaster or damp places. Any stains, no matter how minor, can indicate an underlying roof leak. 

Find the best roofer company near me!

Final Thoughts

Not all roof inspections can be complicated. Homeowners save on expensive repair jobs by regular inspection of shingles, flashing, gutters, and interior and exterior warning signs in attic areas. The best approach is to be mindful of the fact that it is important to check the roof at least twice a year and also after significant weather events.

Proceed with caution, make notes of what you observe, and follow this  DIY Roof Inspection Checklist for Homeowners. If you take care and inspect your roof yourself, you will save your house and make it last longer and have a more relaxed attitude towards the next storm. Read more: Is 2.4 m ceiling height good?