High winds, heavy rain, and hail can take a massive toll on your roof. However, climbing onto a steep, wet roof to check for damage is incredibly dangerous. Fortunately, you can conduct a highly effective initial roof inspection right from the safety of the ground.
1. Grab a Pair of Binoculars
The safest way to inspect your shingles is from your yard or across the street using binoculars. Focus on the ridges, valleys, and edges of your roofline, looking for:
- Missing or cracked shingles: Areas where the dark underlayment is exposed to the elements.
- Curling or cupping edges: A sign that shingles are old and losing their adhesion.
- Damaged flashing: Check the metal seals around your chimney and vents, as these are the most common entry points for water.
2. Inspect the Downspouts
Check the ground below your gutters. If you see piles of dark, sand-like granules inside your downspouts or on your lawn, your shingles are shedding their protective coating. This makes them highly vulnerable to leaks.
Pro Safety Warning: Never step onto a roof that has sustained recent storm damage. Internal structural support beams could be compromised, posing a severe collapse hazard.
If you spot loose shingles, missing flashing, or find wet spots on your attic ceiling, act quickly before a minor drip turns into a major interior ceiling repair. Get matched with a local, insured roofing professional on PorchFixr for a reliable, honest estimate.
