DIY Roof Inspection Checklist for Texas Homeowners

Regular roof inspections help catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. While professional inspections are recommended annually, homeowners can perform basic checks between visits.

Safety First: Ground-Level Inspection Only

We strongly recommend inspecting from the ground using binoculars. Climbing presents serious fall risks. Skip DIY and call a pro after severe storms, active leaks, visible sagging, or roofs over 20 years old.

Exterior Inspection Checklist

What You Need

Binoculars, smartphone for photos, notepad, ladder (gutters only)

Shingle Warning Signs

• Curling shingles - Edges turning upward, indicates age or ventilation issues
• Missing shingles - Bare spots, storm damage indicator
• Cracked shingles - Visible fractures from age or impact
• Granule loss - Bare or shiny spots, check gutters for granules
• Algae/moss - Dark streaks, green growth (common in humid Texas)

Learn warning signs you need replacement.

Flashing Inspection

Check chimneys, vent pipe boots, valleys, and wall step flashing for gaps, rust, or missing sections.

Gutters and Drainage

Look for excessive granules (indicates wear), proper attachment, debris blockage, and downspout function.

Interior Inspection Checklist

Attic Inspection

With flashlight, check for water stains on wood, daylight through roof boards (immediate attention needed), adequate ventilation, insulation condition, and mold/mildew.

Ceiling Inspection

Walk through checking for water stains, peeling paint, and sagging areas.

Seasonal Inspection Schedule

• Spring (March-April): Winter damage assessment, debris cleanup
• Summer (June-July): Heat damage, ventilation, hurricane prep
• Fall (October-November): Pre-winter maintenance, gutter cleaning
• After Storms: Always inspect after hail, high winds, or heavy rain

Learn about storm damage inspections.

Documentation Best Practices

For each inspection, record date/conditions, overall rating (1-5), specific issues with location, photos, and comparison to previous inspections. Good documentation helps with insurance claims and tracking deterioration.

When to Call a Professional

Call for active leaks, visible storm damage, multiple missing shingles, flashing problems, roof age approaching 20 years, or before buying/selling.

What Pros Check That You Cannot

Proper nail patterns, underlayment condition, deck integrity, code compliance, hidden moisture damage.

Your Checklist Summary

Exterior: Shingles, Granules, Chimney flashing, Vent boots, Valleys, Algae/moss

Gutters: Granule accumulation, Secure attachment, Clear of debris, Downspouts

Attic: Water stains, Daylight, Ventilation, Insulation, Mold

Interior: Ceiling stains, Paint peeling, Sagging

Service Areas

Galvan Roofing Solutions provides professional inspections throughout Sugar Land, Memorial, Energy Corridor, Cinco Ranch, Fulshear, Richmond, Pecan Grove, and Greater Houston.

Call (281) 957-3834 or schedule online.