Most experts agree one of the best ways to avoid roof trouble is to inspect your roof twice a year. Once in the fall, just before the winter weather begins. That's the time to check for sun damage. Then again in the spring when you'll want to inspect for damage the winter months may have caused. These inspections will help you identify any problems early and warn you when it's necessary to reroof.

Generally the first sign of roof trouble is a leak. You may notice stains or dampness. More obvious signs of trouble will be raised or broken shingles, a loss of mineral granules in the shingles or dark looking spots in the sheathing.

You'll find you can safely identify some trouble spots from the ground using binoculars or your camera's telephoto lens. Then you can alert the contractor to areas of particular concern to you.

First, standing back away from the house, look at the lines of the ridge and rafters. If they appear to sag, it may indicate structural problems.

Next, look at the roof surface for signs of wear, checking the shingles for warping, cupping, looseness or rot. Scan the roof for any shingles that may have been lifted by the wind or are missing altogether. Bumps can indicate that the roofing nails below have become loose.

On asphalt roofs, you'll want to look for bald spots where the mineral granules have worn away.

With wood shingles, check for curled, broken, and split shingles and for spots where nails have become loose or rusted.

With tile or slate, individual tiles can chip and break and require replacement.
In valleys and in flashings around the chimney and vents, check for broken seals along the flashing's edges and for rust spots in the metal.

Climbing into your attic or onto your roof to inspect your home can be quite dangerous. There is the ever present threat of live wires, unstable surfaces, and unsure footing. For that reason, we at Spartan Supply Company urge you to use the services of a professional contractor to conduct the close-up inspection.