Ladder-Free Roof Inspections
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Did you know that a simple roof inspection for slipped tiles, roof gutter leaks,
or crumbling pointing could save you thousands of dollars in repairs?
Carry out this basic roof inspection regularly. If you see any signs of wear, call in the roofing contractors for a professional roof inspection and remedial work.
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is experienced in home improvement and desperately hates heights. She graduated from King's College, University of London with a degree in Chemistry and Business Studies.
Fear of Heights is No Excuse for Dodging Your Roof Inspections!
I know how important roof inspections are, but an incessant fear of heights has kept me mostly grounded for some time. Unless you have a very unusually shaped home, however, a first pass roof inspection with a pair of binoculars and a little detective work can keep things in order. Know what you're getting into before hiring a roofing contractor by regularly carrying out roof inspections to gauge any deterioration.Conduction a Roof Inspection from the Ground
Carefully view the roof from each side of your home, starting at the top with your chimney stacks (if you have them) and working down and along the roof gutters to systematically check every part.- Chimney Stacks. Look for missing pointing, plants growing in cracks, or leaning brickwork.
- Tiles. Look for ones that have slipped, broken or cracked. Check the flashing, too.
- Roof Gutter. Broken roof gutters should be easy to spot, but because you are looking at them from underneath, seeing inside is difficult. This is where the detective work comes in. Birds will often pick through roof gutter debris looking for insects, which is a sure sigh that its time to get your roof gutters cleared. Inspect during rainfall, checking for leaks. There is often evidence of moss, algae or even tide marks around guttering joints, and the wall immediately behind may also show signs of dampness. The ground and base of the wall where water splashes back might also be damp, green, or show signs of efflorescence (a whitish powder caused by water leaching salts out of the brickwork.)
Carry out this basic roof inspection regularly. If you see any signs of wear, call in the roofing contractors for a professional roof inspection and remedial work.
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is experienced in home improvement and desperately hates heights. She graduated from King's College, University of London with a degree in Chemistry and Business Studies.
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