Before the first snow of the season, have you put your roof to the test? Do you know what to be on the lookout for? When did you last give your shingles a proper once-over?
You will not be in short supply of company if those questions make you think twice. We at Point Roofing are in the business of helping homeowners put their homes in good order; we have been doing so in Northern and Southwest Idaho for some time now, since 2012. For a professional opinion on your roof this fall, pick up the phone and call (208) 795-3041.
There is no better time than fall for an inspection. The summer has run its course and with it the heat, but the rigours of winter are yet to come. In these milder conditions an inspection is all the more straightforward and safe. Nip a small problem in the bud and you will avoid the kind of trouble that snow and ice can bring.
Why Fall Inspections are Important in Idaho
Roofs take a beating from Idaho weather. Shingles will dry out and crack under the hot, arid summers. Winter is another matter: the freeze-thaw action and the ice and snow of winter will find any weakness and work moisture into it. What is a minor crack in October is a leak by January.
An inspection in the fall means you can have repairs done before the weather changes, leaving your home well protected when it counts.
A Ground Level View
We would advise against putting yourself in harm’s way by going up on the roof. You can do an inspection from the ground quite effectively. Put on a pair of binoculars and make a circuit of the property.
Things to note:
- Shingles that are missing, curling or have a crack
- Patches or dark streaks of moss/algae
- Any sagging of the roofline
- Granules from shingles in the gutters or downspouts
- Flashing on chimneys and vents that is rusted or otherwise damaged
- Debris in the valleys
Should you see such things, let a pro have a look at it before winter makes its presence known.
Do Not Overlook the Gutters
Gutters are put to the test in the fall. Leaves and pine needles will clog them in no time, and a clogged gutter is no good for keeping water off your home. If they back up you will have pooling on the roof or near the foundation. In cold weather the trapped water is an invitation for ice dams to form and push their way under your shingles.
Make sure to clear them out and see that the downspouts are draining as they should, with no cracks or sags and are firmly in place.
The Attic
Your attic can tell you what is going on before the rest of the house does. On a bright day go up and check for daylight coming through the boards, or water marks on the decking. Dampness in the insulation, a musty odour or mildew are all red flags for a ventilation issue or a leak. Good ventilation in the attic is also key to staving off ice dams in an Idaho winter.
Storm and Hail Damage
Hail and storms are part of life in Idaho and the damage they leave is not always apparent from below. Hail will bruise a shingle and dislodge the granules, creating weak spots. After a particularly windy or hail filled year it is prudent to have the roof examined. The damage may be of a nature to warrant a repair or even an insurance claim.
Leave It to the Professionals
When in doubt, or if your roof is in its second decade of service, a professional inspection is what you want for peace of mind.
Point Roofing is A+ rated and accredited by the BBB, something our 400 plus reviews attest to. We have been of service to Idaho homeowners since 2012. Whether it is asphalt or metal roofing, storm damage, or new gutters, we can handle it. Free estimates are provided and Service Finance can be used for financing.
Call us at (208) 795-3041 to set up an inspection. There is no need to wait for the snow to discover a problem, get in touch with Point Roofing and face the winter assured.
