It’s easy to overlook the importance of roof maintenance, but by inspecting this important part of your home once a year, you can help catch problems in the early stages of development and thus prevent them from growing into a major ordeal.

In order to successfully inspect your roof for damage, you need to know what to look for. You can use binoculars from the ground or climb up a ladder to give you a good view of the roof, but only hire a professional roofing company to walk around up there. The less time you spend walking on your roof, the better for your shingles – and the safer for you.

Here’s what to look for when performing roof maintenance:

• Damaged flashing: Flashing is a piece of metal that covers gaps in the roof plane, such as at the base of chimneys, dormers and vent pipes. Rusting or inadequate flashing could allow rain and snow to leak under the roof, possibly compromising your roof’s structural integrity and damaging interior walls.
• Missing or damaged shingles: Shingles can buckle, curl or warp. Asphalt shingles shed granules with age, resulting in bare spots on the roof and a gutter full of granules. Wooden shingles are subject to warping and dry rot. Slate and clay tile shingles may break or chip. Of course, missing shingles are also a problem. If you see these signs of roof damage, it’s time for a shingle replacement.
• Water damage: Even in the dry climate of Las Vegas, water can still damage your roof. Uneven roof surfaces and sagging areas are signs of water damage. Check under the eaves and overhangs for any rotting or peeling that indicate water intrusion has occurred.
• Gutter problems: Your gutters shouldn’t sag or leak. You should also keep them clear of debris.
• Blocked roof vents: A well-ventilated attic is important for preventing skyrocketing temperatures that can damage the roof. Soffit vents should remain unobstructed at all times, both from debris on the outdoor and attic insulation on the inside. Ridge vents at the peak of the roof should also remain unblocked for proper ventilation.

If you find any problems while performing roof maintenance, contact  in Las Vegas at 702.262.7847 for repair or replacement services.