How to Inspect Your Roof and What to Look For

Spotting a problem around your home before it becomes a really big issue is always a good move.  This is the case when it comes to your roof – that tiny little crack in a tile can be repaired before the whole tile cracks apart and lets loads of water into the house.  You can either inspect your roof yourself or call on Wolverhampton roofers to do it for you.  If you go the DIY route, here are some ideas what to look for.

Start inside

The best place to start inspectingyour roofing is in the loft.  Here’s where you can find the easiest sign that there’s something wrong – daylight coming through somewhere.  This is a sign that there’s a crack or some kind of damage to the roofing material that is letting the sunlight through.

Also look for water rings where water has been and has evaporated or dark patches that could be rot or black mould.  Check the roof timbers to see if there are any signs of sagging which can happen if they are too damp.

While on the roof, also check there is ventilation.  This is key to make sure you don’t get dampness in the loft.  Be certain nothing is pushed up against it, you can feel the air flowing and it hasn’t been painted over.

Climbing to the roof

Climbing to the roof is something you need to do very carefully and should only be done if you have the safety equipment and the confidence.  You will want an extension ladder that reaches, a safety harness, a 700kg breaking strain rope and shoes with a soft sole for grip.

Place the ladder away from any cables and not in front of any doors.  For every four metres in height, add a one-metre extension above the gutter line for stability.  You can also add a wedge of wood under the ladder feet or get someone to hold it.  Use the rope to secure yourself by throwing it over the roof and having someone attach it to something like a tree.

Once you can get on the roof, check for any signs of damage.  Look at tiles that might be raised above the rest or moss growing that could force them apart.

Other roof parts to inspect

While you are on the roof there are some other elements to inspect for signs of damage or wear.  Flashing is the metal strips around things like chimneys that stop water getting in – make sure they are free from damage and there are no gaps.

Also check the roofline which includes the fascias, soffits, bargeboards and the guttering – these elements are known as the roofline.  Ensure that the guttering is free from any blockages and that it is still solidly anchored to the fascia boards.

Separately, you will also want to ensure that the downpipe is secure and working properly with no breaks or damage that would stop it sending water down the drains.  If the guttering isn’t working properly, there’s a bigger chance of penetrating damp affecting your home.