Summer is a busy time for roofing contractors, especially in Vancouver. Long stretches of rainless days make it ideal to do large scale roof replacements and repairs. Many of these jobs are booked long in advance because the building owners stick to a strict inspection and maintenance schedule. They get their roofs inspected regularly, fix problems as they arise and know that staying ahead of roofing issues is a worthwhile investment.
Roof inspections are just that — investments that save you money in the long run. Roofs undergo a great deal of year-round wear and tear. They are exposed to the elements and have to withstand whatever comes their way, from drastic swings in temperature to weather systems like wind and rain storms, hail and even snow these days. And roofs are tasked with the very important job of keeping the contents of a building, including the people living in it, safe and dry.
Roof Inspections Are Important
Roofs are made to last years. Depending on the materials used, they should hold up for at least a decade. But problems can arise unexpectedly. So, how often should you have your roof inspected?
The general answer is that you should have a professional inspect your roof at least once per year, with the building owner performing regular, year-round care, especially after bad weather.
Usually, the spring or fall are when most people hire professional roofers to do thorough roof inspections. In the spring, roofers will assess whether or not there has been any damage from the previous rainy weather. In the fall, repairs can be made before the rain starts.
It’s also important for homeowners to keep an eye on things between professional inspections, and to clear away any debris or hazards that might cause an issue. Some of the things to look out for include:
- Broken or missing shingles
- Spreading moss or algae
- Cracked or missing sealant and caulk
- Damaged, loose, buckling or hanging gutters
- Evidence of a crumbling chimney
- Overgrown trees and rotted branches nearby
If you notice any of these issues, either take care of them with safety in mind and taking precautions if you’re climbing ladders or walking on the roof. If the problem seems serious, or if it requires skills beyond what you possess or is in a spot that you don’t feel comfortable accessing, call a professional right away.
Another important type of inspection a homeowner can perform is to keep an eye on things from inside your home, always watching for discolouration if it appears in patches on the ceiling. This could point to a serious problem that might not be visible from the outside. However, if you have a professional performing your roof inspection, they should be able to catch these problems.
Roofs don’t fix themselves, problems only get worse in time so it’s imperative to catch them early on. Roof inspections should be added to a part of an annual maintenance schedule, much like car maintenance or an annual check-up with your doctor.
If you would like to book a roof inspection or have any questions about your roof, give us a call. Our roof professionals at Taves Roofs are always happy to help.