If you’re the ultimate DIY-er, or simply fancy a new challenge where your house is concerned, you might consider checking the condition and stability of your roof without any professional help. After all, roofing experts do encourage you to check it at least twice a year.
How often you should check your roof also comes down to where your property is situated, and the weather conditions you’re regularly faced with. If you live in the North East of England, for example, you should expect harsh weather spells regularly.
So, how can you safely and effectively inspect your own roof?
Start from the ground up
As explained by DoItYourself.com: “Unless you are having trouble with visible leakage, checking the roof a bit more often than once a year is advisable.” Nonetheless, as your personal safety is paramount, you shouldn’t be too quick to get up on that roof yourself. Don’t try to run before you can walk!
When the term ‘roof inspection’ is used, you probably instantly imagine yourself popping on that hard hat, strapping on those knee pads, and reaching for that ladder you haven’t used since 2004. No, instead of getting carried away too quickly, first understand that you might be able to perform an adequate inspection without physically getting up on that roof anyway.
Keep an eye out for any leaks in the loft
When inspecting from the inside, you should begin in the loft. Signs you should look for, as listed by AXA, include water rings, sagging, sunlight shining through, and any dark patches. This absolutely counts as a roof inspection – again, without the need to risk your safety by getting on top of your property – as these signs would indicate damage that needs attention.
While we fully support the fact that you might want to inspect and repair your roof without enlisting the help of professionals, sometimes it’s wise to know when you might be ‘biting off more than you can chew.’ If you’re lucky, you might be able to find a local Durham roofing company who will inspect any damage for free.
Your safety should come first, always
The roof is the most important aspect of a property, that’s for sure. That being said, however, it’s important to keep in mind that nothing should ever come above your safety! If you do suspect that something is wrong with your roof, physically getting on top of it may not be the answer. In fact, it could be the worst thing that you do.
It’s true that your roof tiles could break, crack, be displaced or loosen – and how can you be sure of that unless you get up to check? This is where the matter is probably best left to the professionals… The last thing you want is for said broken, cracked, displaced, or loose tile to be the reason you hurt yourself.
If you’re absolutely determined to inspect the situation yourself, invest in the appropriate kit and equipment, and be sure to read helpful guides (like this one!) before you do anything.
