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The National Roofing Contractors Association (NCRA) recommends that homeowners complete an assessment of the roof system each spring and fall.  It may be wise to hire a roofing contractor to assist with this task, but many homeowners prefer to do the initial inspection themselves, to save money and time.  The following will give the homeowner some basic guidelines to follow to complete this task easily and safely.

The roof inspection may be carried out at the same time gutters are cleaned in the spring and fall.  This is not a roofing job that homeowners look forward to, but nevertheless, it must be done, and is an excellent time to examine the roof.  It is important to remember some basic ladder safety tips:  make sure the ladder is on level, solid ground; secure the ladder at the top to avoid slipping; inspect the ladder, rungs and rails for damage; extend the ladder at least 3 feet beyond the gutter, and angle it 1 foot back from the house for every 4 feet in eave height; and finally, always use both hand when climbing a ladder.

Once you are on the ladder safely you should look for shingles that are buckling, curling or blistering; this indicates the shingles are at the end of their life expectancy.  Note any loose material around chimneys, pipes or other openings.  Also, while cleaning the gutters, be aware of an excessive amount of shingle granules in the gutters.  Granules give the shingles added weight and protect them from ultraviolet rays.

If you notice any of the above mentioned irregularities in your roof it is probably necessary to call a roofing contractor to assess the damage further and offer solutions to the problems.  Be sure to take a few precautionary steps before hiring a contractor, even if it is just for an inspection.  Check the contractor’s licenses; make sure there is a permanent place of business, telephone number and tax I.D. number.  Ask for proof of liability and worker’s compensation insurance.  Ask for and check with references.  Before any work is performed ask the contractor about material and workmanship warranties. Whether you hire a contractor to inspect your roof or do the inspection yourself, these annual inspections can save you time and headaches in the future.