The recent hurricanes have left a trail of destruction across our beautiful Florida communities. As we begin the process of recovery, it’s essential to assess the damage to our homes, especially our roofs. This checklist will guide you through doing a preliminary inspection of your own, allowing you to identify potential issues and take the necessary steps toward fast roof repair in Orlando.
Step #1: Visual Inspection
A careful visual inspection from the ground can often reveal telltale signs of damage. Take your time, observe your roof from different vantage points, and use binoculars if needed, to look for these signs:
Missing, Torn, Curled or Damaged Shingles
Storms can be tough on your shingles—look for any that are missing altogether, torn, curled up at the edges, or have broken pieces. These are all signs that they might need replacing to keep your home protected.
Impact Damage
Keep an eye out for any signs of impact from debris, like dents, cracks or punctures in the shingles. Even small dents can lead to bigger problems down the road.
Ridgeline
The ridgeline is the peak of your roof, and it takes a lot of force from the wind. Check to see if it looks straight or if there are any signs of lifting, shifting or damage.
Sagging or Uneven Areas
Take a good look at the overall roofline. Does it look straight and even, or are there any areas that seem to be sagging or dipping? This could indicate a more serious structural issue.
Above all, remember, safety first. If you’re not comfortable getting too close to your roof or if you see anything that concerns you, don’t hesitate to reach out to residential roofing companies in Orlando for a more thorough inspection.
Step #2: Interior Inspection
While those external signs of damage are definitely important, don’t forget to check inside your home, too. Sometimes, the inside can give you clues about your roof’s condition that you might miss from the outside. Below are some areas that would be good to inspect:
The Attic
Head up to the attic with a flashlight and look for any signs of water intrusion. This could be anything from water stains on the wood or insulation to actual dampness or even mold growth. If you see any of these, it’s a good indicator that your roof needs some attention.
Ceilings and Walls
Walk through your living spaces and carefully examine the ceilings and walls for any signs of water damage. Look for things like water stains, peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper or a musty odor. These can all be signs of a leaky roof.
Windows, Doors and Fireplaces
Pay extra close attention to the areas around windows, doors, and fireplaces. These are common spots for leaks to develop, especially if the flashing or caulking has been damaged.
If you find any signs of water damage inside your home, it’s important to schedule roof leak detection. Even small leaks can lead to big problems like mold growth and structural damage if they’re left unrepaired.
Step 3: Physical Roof Inspection
We understand the urge to get a closer look, and if you feel comfortable and it’s safe to do so, a more thorough inspection of your roof can be helpful. However, remember that climbing on your roof can be dangerous, especially after a storm when things might be slippery or unstable.
Your safety is the top priority—if you have any doubts at all, it’s always best to call a professional roofing contractor. If you do proceed, here’s what to look for:
Shingle Damage
Get up close and personal with your shingles! Examine them carefully for any cracks, curling, missing pieces or signs of lifting. Gently lift a few shingles to see if the sealant underneath is still intact. If it’s brittle or cracked, it could be a sign that your roof is more vulnerable to leaks.
Flashing Condition
Inspect the flashing around all roof penetrations, like chimneys, vents, skylights and pipes. Look for any signs of damage, rust or gaps where water could seep in. If the flashing is loose or damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced.
Gutter and Downspout Inspection
While you’re up there, take a moment to clear any debris from your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they’re securely attached and that water flows freely through them.
Chimney and Vent Inspection
Check the chimney and vents for any cracks, loose bricks or other signs of damage. These areas can be particularly vulnerable to strong winds and heavy rain.
Remember, inspecting your roof can be dangerous without the proper safety equipment and training. Wear shoes with good traction, use a sturdy ladder, and have a spotter whenever possible. If you’re unsure about anything or uncomfortable at any point, it’s always best to call top-rated Orlando roofing contractors. They have the experience and equipment to safely inspect your roof and identify any damage, giving you peace of mind.
Call the Pros at P&A for Peace of Mind after the Storm
At P&A Roofing, we’re not just roofing professionals – we’re your neighbors. We’ve been serving the Florida community for more than 25 years, and we’re committed to helping our friends and neighbors get their homes back to their pre-storm condition.
Our team of experienced and certified roofers will provide a thorough inspection, clearly explain any issues we find and offer honest solutions tailored to your needs.We even offer emergency roof repair in Orlando and Davies.
Contact us online or call (321) 233-3748 for a free estimate today.