How to Create a Simple Checklist to Make Your Roof Last Forever

How to Create a Simple Checklist to Make Your Roof Last ForeverUnless your roof is made of diamonds, it’s probably not going to last forever. However, you can significantly extend the service life of your roof by making a simple roof inspection checklist, and sticking to it. Here are some tips from your professional roofers in the Twin Cities area.

1. Formatting Your Checklist

Whether you make a checklist using a pen and a yellow pad or on a computer spreadsheet, keep the format simple and easy to follow.

  • Draw three vertical lines to make four columns on the page.
  • The first column will list areas and materials to inspect.
  • At the top of the second, third and fourth columns, write down SPRING, FALL and WEATHER respectively. These are the times you want to inspect your roofing system — at the beginning of the spring and fall seasons, and immediately following bad weather, such as hail storms.

2. Inspecting Your Roofing System

The first column of your checklist is going to be divided into two sections: EXTERIOR and INTERIOR areas of your roofing system to inspect.

EXTERIOR

  • Shingles and tiles: Look for shingles or tiles that are missing or damaged (e.g. lifting, cracked or torn).
  • Flashing: Flashing should not be lifting or leaving gaps at the roof, chimney, flue, skylights or other materials.
  • Eaves: Look for chipped paint and wood deterioration on the eaves and fascia board.
  • Gutters: Leaky, rusted, clogged, sagging and/or other damage to gutters should be repaired.
  • Downspouts: Granules in your downspouts indicate deteriorating asphalt shingles.

INTERIOR

  • Attic insulation: Moldy, wet or missing attic insulation should be replaced. Insulate your attic to R-60, which is approximately 12 to 16 inches of fiberglass insulation.
  • Decking: Look for water stains on your decking and other timber in the attic. These indicate roof leaks and/or condensation problems caused by poor ventilation, insulation and air leaks.
  • Vents: Make sure vents are unobstructed.
  • Protrusions: Fill gaps around pipes and other protrusions in your attic with a can of spray foam.

3. When to Call Professional Roofers in Twin Cities

Never go on your roof to inspect it. It’s far too dangerous. Use binoculars to inspect shingles and flashing from the ground. If you find fault with any items on your checklist, call your professional roofers in the Twin Cities area.
If you have questions about making your checklist, or would like professional Twin Cities roofers to check it twice, please contact Midwest Roofing, Siding & Windows today!

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