Your asphalt roof is designed to be tough, but it isn't indestructible. A "set it and forget it" approach can lead to premature aging and costly leaks. By performing a simple inspection twice a year—ideally in the Spring and Fall—you can catch minor issues before they become major emergencies.

Note: Safety is paramount. We recommend performing these checks from the ground with binoculars whenever possible. If you must use a ladder, ensure it is secure, or hire a professional for a detailed inspection.

You can spot 80% of roofing problems without ever leaving the ground.

• Check for Missing Shingles: Look for dark patches or exposed decking where shingles may have blown off during recent storms.
• Inspect for "Curling" or "Cupping": Shingles should lie flat. If the edges are turning up (curling) or the centers are concave (cupping), the shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan.
• Look for Granule Loss: Check your downspouts and the ground around your gutters. If you see an accumulation of granules (which look like coarse sand), your shingles are shedding their protective UV coating.
• Examine Flashing: Look at the metal strips around your chimney, vents, and valleys. Rust, separation, or missing pieces are red flags.

Water is a roof's worst enemy. If it can't flow away from your home, it will find a way inside.

• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and muck from gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles (ice dams in winter) and rot the fascia boards.
• Check Downspouts: Ensure water is exiting freely and is directed away from your home's foundation (at least 3-4 feet).
• Secure Loose Gutters: Tighten any loose brackets. Gutters pulling away from the house cannot effectively catch runoff.

External factors often cause the most damage to asphalt roofs.

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Tree limbs act like sandpaper. Wind causes them to scrape against the roof, stripping away granules. Keep branches trimmed back at least 6-10 feet from the roofline.
• Remove Moss and Algae:  Moss holds moisture against the shingles, accelerating rot. If you see green clumps, do not power wash them (this damages shingles). Instead, use a specialized moss killer or a mixture of water and bleach (consult a pro for the right ratio).
• Check Ventilation: From inside your attic, check that soffit vents are not blocked by insulation. Proper airflow prevents heat buildup that can "cook" shingles from the bottom up.

Sometimes the first sign of a roof problem is inside the house.

• Look for Light: Go into the attic during the day and turn off the lights. If you see pinholes of sunlight coming through the roof deck, you have a problem.
• Check for Moisture: Look for dark stains on the underside of the wood decking or damp insulation, especially after a heavy rain.
  
  When to Call a Professional
  If you spot any of the following during your checklist review, it is time to call [Your Company Name] for a professional repair:
  
  
• Loose or missing flashing around chimneys.
• Sagging roof lines.
• More than 10-15% of shingles are cracked or missing.
• Signs of active leaks in the attic.