Roof inspection tips

[FatimaandAhmed]

Hey everyone, can someone share some tips for doing a roof inspection? How do you spot early signs of damage or problems before they get worse? Also, what are some good maintenance steps to help asphalt shingle roofs last longer?

[Alpha]

Hey! Here are some helpful tips for inspecting an asphalt shingle roof and keeping it in good shape.

For inspection:
Look for shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing. These are early signs that the roof might be wearing out.
Check for granule loss. If you see a lot of granules in your gutters or bald spots on shingles, that means they’re aging.
Inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Loose or rusted flashing can let water in.
Watch for sagging areas, dark streaks, or moss growth, especially in valleys or shaded spots. These can point to moisture problems.
From inside the attic, check for damp spots, stains, or sunlight coming through the roof boards.

For maintenance:
Keep gutters clean so water drains off the roof properly. Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up under shingles.
Trim back any overhanging branches to prevent damage from falling debris and reduce moss or algae growth.
Remove moss or algae gently with a soft brush or a roof-safe cleaner. Avoid pressure washing, as it can harm the shingles.
After storms, do a quick check for any signs of damage.
Make sure the attic has good ventilation. Poor airflow can trap heat and moisture, which can shorten the life of the roof.

Doing a simple inspection a couple of times a year and after heavy storms can help catch problems early and keep the roof in better condition over time.

[FatimaandAhmed]

Thanks for the tips! Is there a particular roof-safe cleaner that works well for getting rid of moss without damaging the shingles?

[Alpha]

You're welcome! Products made with potassium salts of fatty acids are a great option. They’re effective against moss and algae while being gentle on shingles and safer for nearby plants. One convenient type is a no-rinse spray. You just apply it and let the rain do the work.

It’s best to avoid anything with bleach or harsh chemicals, especially if you have landscaping below, since runoff can damage plants. Also, skip pressure washing. It might seem like a quick fix, but it can strip away the protective granules and shorten your roof’s lifespan.

If you're unsure, it's always smart to spot-test a small area first.

[FatimaandAhmed]

Do those no-rinse sprays work well on older, heavier moss?

[Alpha]

They can work on older, heavier moss, but the results may take longer and might not be very noticeable after just one application. For thick moss that has been there a while, it helps to gently remove most of it first using a soft brush. Avoid anything metal that could damage the shingles. Once the bulk is cleared, you can apply a no-rinse moss remover to kill the remaining growth and help prevent it from coming back. It usually takes a few weeks and some rain for the treatment to show full results. If the moss is really stubborn, you may need to apply it again later.

[FatimaandAhmed]

Thanks, Alpha. Also, is there anything that helps stop moss from growing in shady areas to begin with, or at least helps keep it from coming back?

[Alpha]

You're welcome! As for moss in shady areas, the key is improving the conditions that moss thrives in, such as shade, moisture, and compacted or acidic soil. You can start by gently loosening the top layer of soil and improving drainage if it's staying too damp. Trimming nearby branches to let in more light can also make a big difference. Some people apply garden lime to raise the soil pH, which makes it less favorable for moss, but it’s a good idea to do a soil test first to avoid overcorrecting. Regular raking and keeping debris off the surface can also help discourage it from coming back.

[FatimaandAhmed]

Awesome, thanks again!