As a wise homeowner, you should inspect your roof at least once a year to ensure that it is in good condition. While you can do a visual inspection yourself, it is always best to hire a professional roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection.

Here are 8 questions that you need to ask during a roof inspection:

#1: How old is the roof?

The first question you need to ask is how old the roof is. The average lifespan of a shingle roof is 20–30 years, while a metal roof can last up to 50 years. If your roof is approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it.

While the exact lifespan of your roof will depend on the materials used and the climate you live in, age is not the only factor that determines whether or not your roof needs to be replaced. If your roof was poorly installed or has experienced a lot of damage over the years, it may need to be replaced sooner than expected. Mighty Dog Roofing professionals have the experience needed to accurately assess the condition of your roof and advise you on whether or not it needs to be replaced.

#2: What is the condition of the shingles/tiles/metal?

The next question you need to ask is about the condition of the shingles, tiles, or metal on your roof. Are they cracked, curled, or missing? If so, this is a sign that your roof needs to be replaced.

Even if the shingles are in good condition, it’s important to check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracking or missing granules.

#3: Are there any missing or loose nails?

Another important question to ask is whether or not there are any missing or loose nails. While a few loose nails may not seem like a big deal, they can actually cause serious problems down the road.

Missing or loose nails can cause the shingles to come loose, which can lead to water damage and leaks. If you find any missing or loose nails, be sure to have them replaced as soon as possible. Making sure that your roof is properly nailed is one of the best ways to prevent leaks.

#4: Are there any areas where the roof is sagging?

Sagging can have a variety of causes, including improper installation, deterioration, or even the weight of snow and ice on the surface, which can cause it. If you detect any portions of the roof that appear to be drooping, it is imperative that you get those areas inspected as soon as humanly feasible.

Sagging can place a significant amount of strain on the roof, which can lead to catastrophic issues such as leaks. The sagging of a roof can even bring about the collapse of the structure in extreme instances. In the event that you identify any problematic locations, make it a point to speak with the contractor about them.

#5: Are there any signs of water damage?

One of the most important questions to ask is whether there are any signs of water damage. Water damage can occur for a number of reasons, such as leaks, missing shingles, and damaged flashing.

If left unchecked, water damage can cause serious problems, such as mold and mildew. If you notice any signs of water damage, be sure to have them repaired as soon as possible.

#6: Are there any cracked or missing tiles?

If you have a tile roof, it’s important to check for any cracked or missing tiles. While a few cracked or missing tiles may not seem like a big deal, they can actually be a serious problem.

Cracked or missing tiles can allow water to enter the home, which can lead to water damage and leaks. In some cases, cracked or missing tiles can also cause the roof to collapse. If you notice any cracked or missing tiles, be sure to have them replaced as soon as possible.

#7: Are there any signs of mold or mildew?

Mold and mildew can be serious problems for any roof. Not only can they cause the roof to deteriorate, but they can also lead to health problems for the occupants of the home. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew, be sure to have them removed as soon as possible.

#8: Are there any animals nesting on the roof?

While it may seem harmless, animals nesting on the roof can actually be a serious problem. Animals can cause damage to the roof as they build their nests, and they can also lead to leaks and water damage. If you notice any animals nesting on the roof, be sure to have them removed as soon as possible.

These are just a few of the important questions to ask when you’re considering a roof replacement. Be sure to ask the contractor about any other concerns you may have. With a little bit of research, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible roof for your home!