​If your roof is old and you haven't inspected it within the last year, you should check it now! To avoid expensive and structural damage, follow our guide of issues to look for in your attic and roof.

Five Things To Inspect Your Attic For

Sure, it can be scary to go up in your attic, but the consequences of ignoring it are even more terrifying. Here are five things to check on: 

1. Your electrical, heating, and plumbing systems. If these systems break down or leak, your house will face adverse conditions that are not caused by your roof.

2. Your vents. If your ducts are blocked, your attic ventilation will come into contact with moisture, allowing mold and mildew to grow. Not only that, proper air flow is essential for a healthy roof.

3. Your insulation. Unfortunately, mice, bats, rats, squirrels, and other pests typically see insulation as a home.

4. Your roof sheathing. You may notice sawdust and broken parts of your sheathing in the attic right away. With broken sheathing, your roof is prone to leaks, sagging, and structural damage.

5. Signs of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew love to grow in your insulation or under a leak anywhere else in the attic. You may be able to smell or see it. It's essential to care for because mold is a health hazard to humans and pets. Mold can also be a sign that there is not enough ventilation in your roof.

Three Roofing Concerns and How To Detect Them

Additionally, here are three roofing concerns you can detect on your own:

1. A leaky roof. If you spot water running down your walls, it's a tell-tale sign.

2. Weak shingles. Check your downspout for granules. If your roof is new, this is normal. If it's old, you may need to replace your shingles.

3. Damaged flashing. Look at all areas of your flashing, and if you see any cracks, it's not providing the protection the creases in your roof need.

It doesn't cost anything to walk up to your attic and look around, but it's expensive to make significant repairs or replacements, and now you know what to look for. So, if you find issues that need repair or a closer look, call Town Corners Roofing and Exteriors at (616) 772-9700 or fill out our contact form for a FREE estimate.