One of the common misconceptions about roofs is that the only way to tell their condition is to actually step foot on the roof itself. However, both homeowners and roofers can assess the condition of roofing in a number of different ways. One of those ways includes a quick visit to the attic. If you are looking to assess the condition of your roof, here are a few of the things you should be on the lookout for during that visit to the attic.
Signs of Light in the Attic
One of the things that you should be on the lookout for when you are visiting your attic is signs of sunlight in your attic. When you are in an unfinished attic and look upward, you are staring at the underside of your roof. This particular part of the roof is referred to as either the decking or the sheathing. There should not be any holes, cracks, or gaps in the decking or sheathing, and you should not be able to see any sunlight peaking through the roof. If you can see signs of light, you have a problem with your roof.
Water Spotting on the Attic Ceiling
Another element that you should be on the lookout for when visiting the attic is signs of water spotting on the attic ceiling. Once again, when you look upward in an unfinished attic, you are looking directly at the roof decking or sheathing. If you notice water spots or signs of water damage, your roof has a leak.
The Smell of Mildew or Moisture in the Attic
Lastly, when you visit your attic, use your nose to sniff out a problem. If you smell the scent of mildew or mustiness in the attic, you may have a roof leak. Your attic should not smell musty or mildew-like, so if it does, water is entering the space from somewhere. The most common cause of water problems in an attic is through the roof, so you should always have a roof inspection completed if you encounter this issue.
If you can look up and see sunlight in your attic, if you notice water spotting on your attic ceiling, or if your attic smells musty or mildewy, your roof is not in the best condition. You likely have a roof leak and are in need of roof repair. Once you have determined that your roof needs a repair, you should call in a roofing professional to make the needed repairs in a timely manner to prevent the existing damage on your roof from worsening.
Contact a roofing company for more information.