It is your roof that takes the worst of the elements. For that reason, it is important to inspect your roof once periodically. Now the question is whether to do it yourself or contact a roofing professional. Both methods can be used depending upon the requirements. The roof inspection is of two types – the inspection of the internal structures and the inspection of the exterior.
The scope of the DIY inspection
Most of the visible problems can be detected through DIY inspection although all of them cannot be rectified by DIY.
Internal inspection
Internal inspection is the inspection of the attic. If water stains or the characteristic odor of the mold is detected, it means that your roof is suffering from a leak. The homeowner also can inspect the ceiling, wall, and windows to see if there are any tell-tale stains. This also means that your roof is letting in water.
Exterior inspection
You can inspect your roof from below with a pair of binoculars. A ladder also can be used, provided you are not afraid of heights. Make sure that the ladder is set properly on a leveled ground.
1. Patches or discolorations
Dark patches or discolorations denote the presence of algae or lichen. This means that pooling occurs on your roof. This can happen if a depression is created by hail, accumulation of debris or a faulty roof installation.
2. Debris
Debris on your roof is detrimental to your roof’s health. The leaves and twigs from the nearby vegetation will retain water under them. This water may find its way to the attic through the space between the shingles.
3. gutters
Gutters and downspouts should be examined to see if they are clogged. Clogged gutters will overflow and water will enter the attic through the fascia. Granules in the gutters show that the shingles are aging or are deteriorating prematurely due to harsh weather.
4. Shingles
A DIY inspection would reveal the general condition of the shingles. You can notice if they are broken, warped or curled. The missing shingles also are easily noticeable. All these conditions will result in water entering your roof, damaging the underlying structures.
5. Cracked roof cement, caulk or sealant
The roof cement, caulk or sealant around the Oldsmar roof-top structures should be intact. An inspection through binoculars will expose cracks and breakages in these parts.
6. Damaged rubber boots around plumbing vents and pipes
The bases of the plumbing elements are usually covered with rubber boots. These rubber structures are liable to be worn-out in due course. The cracks or holes can be visible through binoculars.
7. Damaged flashing
These are usually metal sheets that are fixed at the base of roof-top structures in order to cover the joints. Displacement and curling of the metal sheets or rust and corrosion spots on them can be detectable through the binoculars. These also are vulnerable points of the roof that should be taken care of.
8. Loose or exposed nails
The shingles are likely to be lifted in strong winds which result in lifted nails. Later these loose nails would allow water to seep in and cause a roof leak in your Oldsmar home. They should be driven in properly.
The scope for a professional inspection
While superficial problems can be detected by the DIY inspection, a professional inspection would be more comprehensive.
1. Insulation
Attic insulation is a serious issue. Only a professional roofer can detect the malfunction of insulation and remedy it.
2. Ventilation
Adequacy or the lack of it can only be assessed correctly by a professional inspection. The correction should also be done by an expert.
3. Leaks
The roof leaks take a professional to search out their origin and trajectory. A leak can only be remedied when the origin is discovered.
4. Structural integrity
The underlying components of a roof can only be inspected by a professional. It requires an expert to detect any weakness in the decking or underlayment of the roof.
Correction
Whilecleaning debris, biological growth, gutters, or driving the loose nails can be done by DIY jobs, it is better to seek the help of a professional to correct the rest of the problems.
If any shingles are blown off or most of the shingles are damaged, you will need professional help. Installing proper ventilation and insulation are also professional jobs. Correcting leaks and repairing serious damages to the flashing or rubber boots should also be entrusted with an expert. Whatever they are, the roof problems should be remedied on an emergency basis so that your family and property are well-protected from the elements.