Start blogging by creating a new post. You can edit or delete me by clicking under the comments. You can also customize your sidebar by dragging in elements from the top bar.

Is it Time for a Roof Inspection?


All too often, roof system problems are discovered after leaking
or other serious damage occurs. A thorough check up on your roof system in the
fall and spring (especially after a harsh winter) can be critical to help you
diagnose potential roofing problems early, before they cause major damage to
your home.

While we recommend that you hire a professional roofing
contractor (preferably us!) to assist you with checking your roof, we understand
that many homeowners prefer to perform an inspection themselves. If you prefer
to go that route, here are some important tips to keep in mind.

First
and foremost when inspecting your roof, remember these important ladder safety
tips:

• Inspect the ladder, rungs and rails for
  damage.


• Make sure your ladder is free of oil, grease, wet     paint, and
  other slipping hazards.


• Make sure the ladder is rated for the height you are     trying
  to reach and the weight load you will place on
  it.


• Make sure the ladder is on solid, level
  ground.


• Secure the ladder at the top to prevent it from    
  slipping.


• Extend the ladder at least 3 feet beyond the gutter,     and
  angle it 1 foot back from the house for every 4 feet in eave
  height.


• Always use both hands when climbing the
  ladder.

For more on ladder safety visit:
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/4ladders.html


What
should you look for on the roof?

• Shingles that are buckling, curling or blistering; this    
  indicates the end of the shingles' life and can identify areas of current     or
  potential leaks.


• Loose material or wear around chimneys, pipes and other    
  penetrations.  Caulking and other  
     sealants can begin to shrink or crack over time, especially during extreme    
  temperature changes.  This can be a
       potential source of water intrusion.


• Large amounts of shingle granules in your gutters;     granules
  give shingles added weight and protect the asphalt in the shingle     from
  ultraviolet rays and deterioration.     
  If your roof is new it can be common to have granules shed from the    
  shingles.  However, when an older  
     roof begins to lose large amounts of granules it can indicate that the    
  shingles are starting to fail.

Where else should you
look?


·        
You
should also take a few minutes to look at your ceiling inside your home to see
if there is any evidence of leaks.


·        
Don’t
forget to look inside closets and other recessed
areas.


·        
You
should also look inside your attic for any signs of leaks or
mold/mildew.


·        
Remember
your ladder safety tips before you go into your
attic.


Before
you hire a roofing contractor, do your homework:

• Check for a contractor's permanent place of business,    
  telephone number and tax identification
  number.


• Check references from prior
  customers.


• Ask for proof of insurance (liability and workers'    
  compensation – note: these requirements vary by state, consult your state’s    
  laws to determine requirements).


• Ask the contractor about material and workmanship    
  warranties.

Did you find something that you would like us to look into?  Or, would you like to schedule a
professional roof inspection?  Call Brink Roofing
today.  814-898-4663  We are happy to
help!