1. Safety First

• Ladder Safety: Ensure your ladder is stable and secure before climbing.
• Weather Conditions: Avoid inspections during wet or windy conditions to prevent accidents.
• Helper: If possible, have someone nearby for assistance.

2. Initial Visual Inspection from the Ground

• Shingle Condition: Look for any missing, cracked, or curled shingles that could be vulnerable to Oklahoma’s weather.
• Sagging Roofline: Check if the roofline appears straight and even. Sagging may indicate structural issues.
• Debris: Note any visible debris, such as branches or leaves, that may need to be cleared.
• Gutter Condition: Inspect the gutters for visible damage, sagging, or signs of blockage.

3. Inspection of Roof Surface (Use Caution When Walking on Roof)

• Shingles:
  • Missing Shingles: Identify any areas where shingles are missing.
  • Damaged Shingles: Look for shingles that are cracked, blistered, or curling at the edges.
  • Granule Loss: Check for granule buildup in gutters, which can indicate shingle wear.
• Flashing:
  • Around Chimneys and Vents: Ensure flashing is secure with no signs of rust, damage, or lifting.
  • Valleys and Skylights: Inspect flashing in valleys and around skylights for secure attachment and watertight seals.
• Roof Vents:
  • Condition: Check vents for damage, rust, or blockages.
  • Seals: Ensure the seals around vents are intact and free from cracks or gaps.
• Roof Penetrations:
  • Chimneys, Pipes, and Skylights: Examine these areas for any gaps, cracks, or signs of water intrusion.
• Moss and Algae:
  • Growth: Look for moss or algae growth on the roof surface. These can retain moisture and lead to damage.
  • Cleaning: Consider professional cleaning to remove moss or algae safely.

4. Gutters and Downspouts

• Debris: Clean out any leaves, twigs, or other debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Attachment: Check that gutters are securely attached to the roofline and are not sagging.
• Downspout Flow: Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation and are not clogged.

5. Attic and Interior Inspection

• Attic Ventilation:
  • Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the attic to prevent moisture buildup, a common issue in Oklahoma’s humid climate.
  • Insulation: Check for adequate insulation to maintain energy efficiency and prevent ice dams.
• Water Stains:
  • Ceilings and Walls: Look for water stains on ceilings and walls, indicating potential leaks.
  • Attic Rafters: Inspect rafters in the attic for water stains, mold, or mildew, which may suggest roof leaks.
• Light Penetration:
  • Attic Roof: Check for any light shining through the attic roof, indicating gaps or holes in the roofing material.

6. Check for Structural Issues

• Roof Deck:
  • Sagging or Uneven Areas: Inspect the roof deck for signs of sagging or unevenness, which could indicate underlying damage.
• Chimney:
  • Cracks or Deterioration: Examine the chimney for cracks in the masonry or deteriorating mortar.
• Soffit and Fascia:
  • Damage: Check the soffit and fascia for signs of rot, cracks, or damage. These areas are crucial for ventilation and keeping pests out.

7. After Severe Weather Events in Oklahoma

• Storm Damage:
  • Hail Damage: Look for dents, cracks, or bruises on shingles and metal surfaces, which are common after Oklahoma’s frequent hailstorms.
  • Wind Damage: Inspect for shingles that have been lifted, curled, or blown off.
  • Fallen Debris: Remove any large debris, such as branches, that may have fallen on the roof.

8. Regular Maintenance and Repairs

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Plan for roof inspections at least twice a year (spring and fall), particularly after Oklahoma’s storm seasons.
• Prompt Repairs: Address any issues found during inspections promptly to prevent further damage.
• Hire a Professional: If you’re uncomfortable performing the inspection yourself or if you notice significant issues, hire a professional roofing contractor to perform a more thorough inspection and necessary repairs.