Your roof is the umbrella to your property, protecting it from the elements and preventing more serious issues from developing. That’s why it’s important to inspect your roof, identify any issues and get them repaired as soon as possible.
That said, it’s understandable that not everyone has the same know-how about roofing as a professional roofer. In this post, we’ll provide a bit more information about roof inspections and list three simple steps to check your roof’s condition.
DIY vs professional inspections
First of all, it’s worth clarifying the difference between a DIY inspection and the comprehensive assessment you’ll get from a professional roofer.
Under no circumstances should someone try to access their own roof without the right training. The steps we’ll provide in this post allow you to get a broad idea of your roof’s condition without the need to risk your own safety or risk any damage to your property.
If you spot any issues, the next step is to call a trusted roofing company who can take a closer look. Because they have been trained to work at height, roofers can get up close and personal with your roof to spot even the smallest issues and nip them in the bud. Needless to say, they also have a better understanding of what roofing problems look like before they turn into something serious.
Finally, it’s worth noting that DIY checks are not a replacement for professional inspections. While DIY checks can provide a bit more peace of mind about the condition of your roof, we recommend having your roof professionally inspected at least once a year.
3 DIY roof inspection steps
Water ingress check
The most obvious sign that your roof needs repairing or replacing is when water is getting in. While you might think you would notice a leak, some are far more discreet than others.
To begin with, take a look at your ceilings and around the top of walls at the top level of your property. Check for damp patches or discolouration.
Loft check
If you can safely access your loft or roof space, you can repeat the checks above to see if water is getting in.
Another useful tip is to switch off the lights and look for any daylight coming through your roof. This is a sign that your roof’s covering is broken, which will inevitably allow water through.
Ground check
Finally, check your roof from outside your property. There are a number of visual clues which can indicate problems with your roof or act as warning signs for problems to come:
- Tiles or slates – check for any tiles that have cracked, come loose or completely fallen out of place.
- Flashing – look for any damage or looseness on the flashing around your chimney or skylight.
- Gutters – make sure your guttering is up to scratch. If gutters are cracked, blocked or coming away from the roof, you’ll need to get them seen to.
Book an inspection
Whether you’re concerned about a specific part of your roof or you just want complete peace of mind that everything is working well, the team at DPR Roofing is on hand to help across Huddersfield.
On a detailed inspection, we’ll assess every part of your roof and highlight any problem areas. We’ll provide no-obligation advice on the best course of action. Then its up to you to make an informed decision about your next steps.
Arrange an inspection today by calling 01484 866 772 or emailing [email protected].