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The Complete Roof Inspection Checklist: What Every Portland Homeowner Should Know Before Calling a Pro

Your step-by-step guide to spotting common roofing issues and understanding what a professional inspection covers

This guide walks you through a thorough roof inspection from the ground up, helping you identify potential problems like missing shingles, gutter clogs, and flashing failures before they turn into costly leaks. Whether you're preparing for a free inspection from Peak Roofing & Exteriors or just want to keep an eye on your roof's health, these actionable steps will save you time, money, and stress.

☑ Complete Checklist

Exterior Roof Surface Inspection

☐Look for missing, cracked, or curled asphalt shingles from the ground using binoculars
☐Check for granule loss in gutters and downspouts — excessive granules mean shingles are aging
☐Inspect for dark or stained areas that indicate moisture trapping or algae growth
☐Examine ridge caps and hip shingles for lifting or separation
☐Look for any shingles that are buckled or wavy — a sign of improper nailing or deck movement
☐Check for moss or lichen buildup, which can lift shingles and trap moisture

Flashing and Penetrations

☐Inspect chimney flashing for rust, gaps, or separation from the masonry
☐Check vent pipe boots (plumbing vents) for cracked rubber gaskets or loose metal collars
☐Examine skylight flashing for lifted edges or deteriorated sealant
☐Look at valley flashing where two roof planes meet — ensure it's not rusted or bent
☐Check around satellite dish or antenna mounts for exposed nail heads or gaps
☐Inspect drip edge at eaves and rakes — it should be tight against the fascia and not rusted through

Gutters and Downspouts

☐Clear all leaves, debris, and moss from gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup
☐Check for sagging gutters or loose hangers — they should slope ¼ inch per 10 feet toward downspouts
☐Look for rust spots, holes, or separated seams in metal gutters
☐Ensure downspout extensions carry water at least 5 feet away from the foundation
☐Inspect gutter guards for damage or clogging that reduces water flow
☐Check for water stains or rot on fascia boards behind gutters — a sign of overflow or leaks

Fascia and Soffit

☐Look for peeling paint or wood rot on fascia boards, especially at joints and ends
☐Check soffit vents for blockages from bird nests, wasp hives, or debris
☐Inspect soffit panels for holes, cracks, or sections that have fallen out
☐Ensure soffit vents are clear to allow proper attic airflow — critical for preventing ice dams in Portland winters
☐Look for signs of animal entry (chewed wood, droppings, or nesting material) around fascia and soffit

Attic and Interior Signs

☐From inside the attic, look for daylight coming through roof sheathing gaps or around vents
☐Check for water stains, dark streaks, or mold on rafters and insulation
☐Feel for damp insulation or musty odors that indicate a slow leak
☐Inspect for rusted nail heads or metal fasteners — a sign of condensation or roof leaks
☐Look for sagging or soft spots in the roof deck from the attic side
☐Check attic insulation for proper depth (R-49 recommended in Portland) and even coverage

💡 Pro Tips from the Experts

💡 Pro Tip: Use the 'Squish Test' for Shingle Condition

Walk carefully on your roof (if safe) and press down on a few shingles — if they feel soft or spongy, the asphalt has degraded and replacement may be needed soon.

💡 Pro Tip: Check Flashing Before the Rainy Season

Portland's wet months (Oct–May) are brutal on flashing — inspect all metal flashings in late summer so you can seal any gaps before the first storm hits.

💡 Pro Tip: Don't Ignore Granule Buildup in Gutters

If you see more than a handful of granules in your gutters after a rain, your shingles are losing their protective coating — schedule a professional inspection immediately.

💡 Pro Tip: Clear Gutters Twice a Year — Not Once

In Portland's climate, gutters should be cleaned in late spring (after pollen and seed drop) and late fall (after leaf fall) to prevent clogs that cause ice dams and fascia rot.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a Flashlight in the Attic

A bright flashlight will reveal even tiny pinhole leaks — look for water trails on rafters or dark spots on insulation that are easy to miss in dim light.

💡 Pro Tip: Know When to Call a Pro

If you spot any of the following — missing shingles, sagging roof deck, visible daylight in the attic, or water stains on ceilings — stop your DIY inspection and call Peak Roofing & Exteriors for a free, thorough evaluation.

This guide is for informational purposes only. Roof inspections can be dangerous — always prioritize safety and consult a licensed professional for any repairs or detailed assessments.