When storms hit in Ballina, they hit hard and fast. When you see a storm approaching, it’s too late to start worrying about whether your leaky roof is going to hold up. Staying ahead on roof maintenance will give your home a far better chance of holding up when the weather turns wild.
This means knowing how to inspect a roof so that you can spot any issues long before a thunderstorm can put it to the test.
The good news is that you don’t need to climb onto the highest point of your house or take unnecessary risks. In this brief step-by-step guide on how to inspect a roof safely, you’ll see that a calm look around your property can reveal what you need to know.
What to Look for From Ground Level
A slow walk around your home on ground level will work well as a starting point. Stand back far enough to see the entire surface of the roof and look for any uneven sections or gaps where daylight appears between the roofline and the sky.
- Missing or damaged roof tiles or sheets often show up as lighter patches, while cracked areas will sometimes curl at the edges.
- Damaged flashing around vents and chimneys may create openings where rain can seep through.
- Gutters packed with debris will slow drainage and force water to pool against the roof edge, inviting leaks.
How To Assess The Roof Cavity For Hidden Leaks
Indoor clues will often appear before exterior damage becomes obvious. Water stains on ceilings or walls inside the home usually start small and spread outward in irregular shapes. A musty smell in upper rooms may signal slow moisture buildup.
Peek into the roof cavity with a torch and scan for damp insulation or darkened timber. Light shining through the roof surface from outside will make a direct path for rain to get in. On a dry day, place a hand near the suspected spots to feel for cooler air, which will reveal if there are any gaps.
When Is A Ladder Inspection Appropriate?
If you feel confident using a ladder, you can climb up for a closer look, but keep your footing stable and remain at the edge rather than stepping onto the roof.
A responsible roof inspection guide will always prioritise secure placement and a second person nearby for safety. From this position, check that the flashing lies flat and that the gutters are firmly fixed. Loose sheets or corroded fasteners near the ridge will allow storm winds to lift materials and cause damage.
Why Does A Professional Inspection Still Matter?
There are limits to DIY checks, especially on steep designs or multi-level homes. A certified roofing expert will have the necessary training and equipment to reach areas you can’t safely access. Plus, they will know how to check your roof for leaks in ways you can’t do without the right gear.
If you suspect there’s a problem, expert plumbers like Sidney & Richardson can find it and carry out repairs before the next downpour hits.
Contact Sidney & Richardson today for expert assistance. We know how to inspect a roof and can fix your problem before it turns into a calamity.
