Check your roof from the ground

Step by step

1. Inspect at least twice a year, in spring and fall, and again after any hail or high-wind storm.

2. Walk all four sides of the house on a clear day and scan the roof with binoculars.

3. Look for shingles that are missing, cracked, curled or buckled, and for shingle pieces on the ground.

4. Check the metal flashing around the chimney, vents and skylights for dents, rust, gaps or cracked sealant.

5. Look in the gutters and at the downspout outlets for shingle granules. A new roof sheds some loose granules for a few months. Heavy, ongoing loss or bare patches on the shingles is the warning sign.

6. Note moss or debris that holds moisture. Dark streaks are usually airborne algae. They discolor the roof but are not a sign of damage.

7. Check the gutters, fascia and soffits while you're looking up.

8. In the attic, use a flashlight to look for water stains, rot, mold or wet insulation, and for daylight where it shouldn't be, such as around flashing, nail holes or between roof boards. Light at ridge, soffit or gable vents is normal.