How Often to Inspect Your Roof (and What to Check For)

Schedule at a glance

How to do it

1. DIY visual inspection (safe — from the ground):
2. 1. Walk around the entire perimeter of the house with binoculars.
3. 2. Look at each side of the roof. Photograph anything that looks off.
4. 3. Check for: missing or curled shingles, dark streaks (algae or asphalt loss), exposed nail heads, sagging sections, visible damage to flashing around chimneys/vents.
5. 4. Look at the gutters — if they're full of granules (looks like coarse dark sand), your shingles are aging out.
6. 5. From inside the attic on a sunny day: look for daylight coming through (any pinpoint of light = a hole).
7. 6. Check the attic for water stains, mold, or wet insulation — these indicate active or past leaks.
8. When to call a professional:
9. • Roof is 15+ years old (asphalt shingle).
10. • You see any of the warning signs.
11. • You're considering selling (a recent inspection report is a selling point).
12. • You suspect storm damage and may file an insurance claim.
13. Inspectors should be CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator, GAF Master Elite, or Owens Corning Preferred. Cost: $200-$500.

Signs you're overdue

• Curling, cupping, or lifting shingles at the edges
• Bald spots where granules are missing (looks darker than surrounding shingles)
• Dark streaks of algae or moss growing on shingles
• Sagging roof sections (visible from the ground or curb)
• Damaged flashing around the chimney, vents, or skylights
• Daylight visible through the roof when standing in the attic
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Granules in the gutter — small amounts after rain are normal, piles are not
• Higher heating/cooling bills (possible attic insulation problem from leaks)

What it costs

DIY inspection: free. Professional inspection $200-$500. Spot repair $200-$800. Full roof replacement $5,000-$25,000.

FAQ