Checking Your Roof
I would recommend inspecting your roof at least once a year. Some of the more obvious issues can be seen from the ground like missing shingles, but you should inspect the roof from at least from a ladder to get a closer look, if you see curled shingles that are stiff and fragile you should avoid stepping on them as they could fall apart under your feet and damage the roof further; or worse yet you could slip and fall. Below are a few things to look for when inspecting your roof. Replacement my not be necessary in all cases but any of the below items could result in escalating damage. If you notice any of the following items you should have a professional look at your roof.
1) Leaks
When ever you have a leak no mater where it is or what the quantity get it looked at immediately a simple fix may save you thousands later
2) Cracked Shingles
The most common cause of this is due to improper ventilation or old age but this could also be a manufacture defect as well.
3) Missing Granules
This can be caused from a variety of things including hail damage, old age, tree braches, and heavy rains. Overtime the roof will continue to loose them as it ages, and they will collect in the gutters and wash out. New roofs will shed many granules at first but if your roof has been installed for a couple years and you see considerable granular loss in the gutters or sparse coverage on the shingle get a professional to look at it.
4) Curling
Curling occurs at the lower edge or at the sides of the shingle tabs usually do to old age which could be accelerated if not ventilated properly. These shingles are usually very fragile and may fall apart if walked on.
5) Cupping
Cupping happens when the shingles bottom edge is turned up and is sometimes called fishmouthing. This is commonly due to improper ventilation or building moisture. If you see this the attic should be checked for mold or moisture build up.
