How often should you check your roof yourself, and what should you look for?
Short answer. Check your roof yourself from the ground and the attic about twice a year, typically in spring and fall, and again after any strong storm. It takes about 15 minutes, needs no ladder, and catches most problems early enough to stay small.
From the ground (with binoculars if you have them)
- Missing, lifted or creased shingles, especially on ridges and edges.
- Dark patches or bare spots where granules are gone.
- Moss or heavy algae on shaded slopes.
- Debris piled in valleys or behind chimneys.
- Gutters pulling away, sagging, or overflowing in rain.
- Damaged vents, cracked pipe boots, or loose chimney flashing.
- Branches touching or hanging over the roof.
Around the house
- Granules collecting at downspout outlets.
- Peeling paint or soft spots on fascia and soffits.
- After storms: dents in gutters, downspouts and AC fins, which hint at hail size.
In the attic (on a bright day)
- Daylight showing through the roof deck.
- Water stains or dark spots on the decking or rafters.
- Damp or compressed insulation.
- Rusty nail tips, which can signal condensation from poor ventilation.
Inside the house
Ceiling stains, especially near chimneys, skylights and exterior walls.
Stay off the roof
Do not climb onto the roof, especially after rain or with pine needles on it. If you see something, take a photo and call a professional. See the Georgia roof maintenance checklist and signs you need a new roof.