Roof Inspection: Why is it Necessary?

Since your roof offers a line of defense for your home’s structure, it should be inspected regularly. Roof inspections, which should be offered by your local roofer, are especially important if you live in location that tends to experience weather extremes and dangerous storms.

What Causes My Roof to Deteriorate?

Your roof has many natural attackers, including:

1. Sun: Heat and UV rays can be destructive to roofing materials, causing them to break down over time.
2. Wind: High winds can pull shingles away from the roof’s underlayment, allowing dirt and water to collect between the layers. Over time, this debris and moisture can lead to structural deterioration.
3. Rain and Snow: Frequent moisture penetration can be detrimental to your roof’s structure, causing mildew, wood rot and even damage to insulation and electrical infrastructure.
4. Lichen: Wood shakes and shingles make good homes for moss and algae. These organic materials discolor your roof and hold in excess water—which leads to wood rot and structural damage over time. In addition, fungus builds up in gutter systems, making it difficult to maintain proper drainage flow.
5. Trees: If your yard’s landscaping becomes overgrown, tree limbs and leaf buildup may become a problem. Long, heavy branches can puncture or scratch your roof, and leaves may block downspout systems.

When Should I Have My Roof Inspected?

According to the National Roofing Contractor’s Association, homeowners should have their roofs inspected twice a year to ensure optimal performance and lifespan. Regular roof inspections include a look at interior walls, ceilings and fireplace flues, assessment of leaks or visible damage, evaluation of downspout/gutter systems and examination of roofing materials (shingles, shakes, tiles, etc.).

After inspecting your home from the inside and out, a qualified roofer can make recommendations about maintenance or replacement measures. We will be covering the topic of what to expect during a roof inspection in our next post so don’t miss it.

Schedule Your NJ Roof Inspection Today

If it’s been awhile since you had a roofing professional look over your home’s roof and gutter systems, contact LGC Roofing. After examining your home’s roof, our contractors can offer you maintenance tips, quote required repairs or discuss gutter, siding and window replacement. Protect your home by making an appointment today.