When it comes to maintaining your home, there are some tasks you can handle on your own and some that require a professional. For example, one question that often comes up is whether or not you can inspect your roof. The short answer is yes, you can, but the real question is whether or not you should.

Inspecting your roof can be a great way to save money and stay on top of any potential issues, but it’s with risks. Here are a few pros and cons to consider before you grab your ladder and head up to the rooftop:

Pros:

• Save Money: One of the most significant advantages of self-home inspection is that you can save a lot of money. Rather than hiring a professional to come out and do the job for you, you can do it yourself for free.
• Catch Problems Early: By inspecting your roof regularly, you’ll be able to catch any potential issues early on before they turn into more serious (and expensive) problems.
• Learn About Your Roof: Inspecting your roof can help you become more familiar with how it’s constructed, which can be helpful if you ever need to make repairs or modifications.

Cons:

• Safety Concerns: Inspecting a roof can be dangerous, especially if you’re not experienced with climbing ladders or walking on sloped surfaces. Falls from roofs can be extremely serious, so if you’re not comfortable with heights or need the proper safety equipment, it’s best to leave the job to the professionals.
• Lack of Expertise: While inspecting your roof can be a great way to catch potential issues early on, it’s important to remember that you may have a different level of expertise than a professional roofer. You may miss some cases, which could lead to larger problems down the road.
• Difficulty Identifying Issues: Depending on the type of roofing material you have and the age of your roof, it can be challenging to identify potential issues without the help of a professional. This is particularly true if you have a flat roof or a roof with a complex design.

Now, let’s talk about the hilarious mishaps of DIY roof inspections. We’ve all seen videos of people falling off ladders or getting stuck on their roofs, and while these incidents are certainly no laughing matter, there’s something undeniably funny about them. But, of course, we don’t want you to be the next internet sensation for all the wrong reasons, so if you’re going to inspect your roof, make sure you do it safely and responsibly.

If you’re comfortable with heights, have the proper safety equipment, and are familiar with your roof, inspecting it independently can be a great way to save money and stay on top of potential issues. However, leaving the job to a roofing contractor is best if you’re uncomfortable with these factors. And if you do decide to take on the task, remember to be careful up there – we want you to avoid ending up in the next viral video!

Five Things to Check When Inspecting Your Roof

Evaluating the condition of your roof is an integral part of maintaining your home. Regular inspections can help you identify potential issues early on and prevent more severe problems. Here’s a checklist of some key things to look for when inspecting your roof:

• Check the flashing: Flashing is the metal or plastic material that seals the edges and seams of your roof to prevent water from seeping in. Check for cracked caulk or rust spots on the flashing, which could indicate that it needs to be repaired or replaced.
• Look for damaged shingles: Shingles that are buckling, curling, or blistering are a sign that they may be reaching the end of their lifespan. Missing or broken shingles can also cause concern, as they can allow water to seep into the underlayment and cause damage.
• Check the rubber boots: Rubber boots are the material that surrounds vent pipes on your roof. Over time, these boots can crack and wear, leading to leaks. Check for broken or worn rubber boots and replace them as necessary.
• Inspect the chimney cap: If you have a chimney, it’s essential to check the chimney cap for damage. A lost or damaged chimney cap can allow animals or debris to enter your chimney, which can cause damage to your roof or create a fire hazard.
• Look for signs of water damage: Water damage can be a sign of a leaky roof. Look for water stains or discoloration on your ceiling or walls and any signs of mold or mildew.
• Check the gutters: Your gutters play an essential role in diverting water from your roof and foundation. Check for clogs or damage, which can cause water to overflow and damage your roof or siding.

By regularly inspecting your roof and addressing any issues promptly, you can help extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent more severe problems down the road.