Homeowner Pro-Tip: Easy Roof Inspection Checklist

Need a new roof? Use this handy roof inspection checklist to help you determine if your asphalt roof is in need of replacement. There is plenty of home maintenance to complete as the new seasons rolls around.

One of the most important things to check often is your roof. The long Canadian winter with freezes and thaws can wreak havoc on your roof. To ensure your home is safe from unexpected leaks in the spring rain, or when thawing in the winter, go through the checklist below. If you notice any of the below, it may be time for a roof replacement. Choose the permanent solution, a Hy-Grade Steel Roofing System, and ensure peace-of-mind for at least the next 50 years!

✔ IS YOUR ROOF 10+ YEARS OLD?

The average life of an asphalt roof is about 12-15 years in Ontario. We live in a climate with dramatic weather changes. Throughout the year we experience freezing in the winter, hot sunny weather in the summer, rain, hail, snow, and everything in between. The expansion and contraction of asphalt through temperature changes allows the shingles to absorb water. This deteriorates the integrity of the shingle. Deterioration occurs faster here than in some other parts of the world. Depending on which part of the province you live in, your roof may even wear down faster than the average.

If your roof is 10 years old or more, it’s important to thoroughly check the state of asphalt shingles at least annually.

✔ HAVE YOUR NEIGHBOURS BEEN REPLACING THEIR ROOFS LATELY?

One of the best indications that it may be time to replace your roof is if your neighbours have been replacing their roofs in the last few years. Neighbourhoods, since they were likely built around the same time, tend to need roof replacements at the same time as well.

✔ ARE THERE SHINGLE GRANULES IN YOUR GUTTERS?

Cleaning your gutters is a typical spring maintenance task. While you’re at it, take note if there are asphalt granules in with the rest of the debris. This is a great indication that your asphalt shingles are deteriorating, and you may need a roof replacement.

✔ ARE YOUR SHINGLES CUPPING, CURLING OR CRACKED?

If your shingles look like the above, they’ve likely reached the end of their lifespan. They are no longer serving their intended purpose of protecting your home. It’s very likely time to think about a roof replacement.

✔ ARE THERE ANY BALD SPOTS OR MISSING SHINGLES?

If you notice any missing shingles on your roof, it needs immediate attention. Your roof is at risk of a leak and the water damage may reach the inside of your home. This could mean a very expensive fix, so contact us immediately!

✔ ARE THERE ANY DARK STREAKS OR PATCHES?

Dark streaks or patches on your roof could mean the asphalt shingles are retaining water in that area. If they are retaining water, they are no longer shedding it and serving their intended purpose. Pay close attention to any valleys on your roof, as this is most often where water retention occurs first.

✔ ARE ANY SHINGLES COVERED WITH MOSS OR ALGAE?

The growth of moss and algae on or between shingles can act as a sponge, absorbing water. If you’re unable to remove the moss or algae, the water they retain could make its way under the shingles and into your home. One of the many benefits of a Hy-Grade Steel Roof is eliminating the risk of moss or algae growth.

✔ ARE THERE ANY LEAKS OR SIGNS OF WATER DAMAGE INSIDE YOUR HOME?

We hope it hasn’t come to this, but if you notice any signs of water damage inside your home, it could very likely be a malfunctioning roof. Although there could be another cause, inspecting your roof is a great place to start. Look at the corresponding section of your roof where you noticed the internal water damage, and any other section of roof that would drain to that location.