
Stop Waiting for Exterior or Interior Damage to Appear. Instead, Inspect Your Roof and Siding After Heavy Winds.
After storms with heavy winds, the only way to know what damage your exterior has acquired is to look for it. Be vigilant because wind damage to your roof and siding creates and accelerates problems concerning functionality, aesthetic appeal, and safety. The severity of the damage depends on the strength of the wind, the age of your roof, and the quality of maintenance.
In this article, we'll discuss how to do a DIY inspection from the ground, attic, and roof.
Start On Solid Ground.
There is a bit of looking around while you're on the ground. Keep an eye out for:
Mold on the soffits
Missing or damaged fascia and soffits
Debris from storms
Warping or cracking in the siding, where wind and water can enter the home, making it challenging to regulate internal temperatures
Investigate the Attic.
There are warning signs in your attic that suggest injuries to your roof. This is an expert-approved attic inspection checklist:
When you walk in the attic, wait to turn on the lights. If you can see areas of light coming in, there may be leaks and holes in your roof.
Use an inexpensive thermal camera to measure changes in temperature in or around the attic. Big changes may indicate improper insulation.
It's easier to spot leaks if you inspect on a rainy day.
Pests can easily make their way through gaps in the soffit. So, evidence of pests indicates that your siding is damaged. Look for droppings, leaves, nests, acorns, and damage to your insulation.
Water stains, rot, and mold suggest roof or siding leaks.
Poor ventilation in the attic may cause roof damage. The interior and exterior need ventilation to “breathe.” Signs of inadequate ventilation include mold, rusted nails, and condensation on the sheathing.
Inspect Your Roof.
Last, it's time to get on the roof if you're comfortable doing so. Of course, it's safer to hire a roofing professional to do it. If you would instead do it yourself, we recommend using safety tools like a harness, spotter, roof harness anchor, sturdy ladder, and rubber-soled shoes.
Look for the obvious missing shingles or punctures from flying debris.
Ensure that the gutters drain appropriately by clearing debris out of them.
See if there are dents and cracks in the gutter or if it's detached from the roof.
If there are water stains or damp spots on the roof, and it hasn't rained, you may have roof leaks or other damage.
Check for curling, lifting, or torn-off shingles.
Check for Malfunctioning roof vents or flashing.
Assess for small cracks radiating from one area of the underlayment.
On the ground and the roof, look for structural damage from fallen debris.
So, if you live in West Michigan, call Town Corners Exteriors at 616-772-9700 or fill out our contact form for a FREE estimate. We'll make necessary repairs ASAP so you can maintain your home's beauty and usability.
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