Free 5-minute roof check

You do not need a ladder. Walk around your house, look up, and check these things. Take a photo of anything that looks off.

1. Shingles. Look for missing, curled, cracked or very worn shingles, and bare spots.
2. Granules. Check gutters and downspout ends for a lot of shingle grit.
3. Flashing. Look at the metal around chimneys, vents and walls for gaps, rust or lifting.
4. Gutters. Look for sagging, clogs, or water stains on siding under the gutter.
5. Ceilings and attic. Look for brown stains, peeling paint or a musty smell inside.
6. Moss, debris and trees. Note anything piling up on the roof or branches touching it.

Safety first: stay off the roof and off ladders if it is wet, icy or windy. Look from the ground, take photos, and call a pro if you are unsure.