As winter wraps up, it is a good time to consider a roof inspection. Ideally, you should have someone take a look every spring and fall, just to make sure nothing has been damaged by severe weather during the previous seasons. If you can’t remember the last time your Post’s roof was inspected, or even if it’s been more than a year, a roofing professional should take a look.

The roof’s job is to protect the entire building from the elements, so it’s incredibly important to make sure it’s functioning properly. A damaged roof can let in moisture which can damage walls, ceilings and anything you keep inside the building. Trapped moisture can also cause an unhealthy mold problem.

Here are some of the things you need to look for:

• Sun damage. Certain coatings and sealants are vulnerable to heat and sunlight. Look for cracks, peeling, bubbles and other signs of deterioration.
• Standing water. Pools or puddles on the roof are a sign of poor drainage and can lead to leaks.
• Storm damage. After thunderstorms, high winds, hurricanes or heavy snowstorms, check the roof for signs of weakness or damage. Be sure to remove any debris that may have gathered on the roof.
• Gutter problems. Make sure gutters and downspouts are cleaned out regularly and fastened securely to the building.
• Overgrown trees. Keep trees trimmed back from the building. This will reduce the amount of leaves and twigs that can clog the gutters, and also prevent fallen branches from damaging the building in the event of a heavy storm.
• Pest damage. Lots of different kinds of animals, birds and insects can cause their own special kinds of roof damage. Have regular termite inspections and check for holes made by birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc. Consult a pest control expert to remove any creatures that have moved into your roof space.

If repairs are needed, we recommend that you have them done by a professional roofing company with verified references.

Coverage may not be available in all states and is subject to actual policy terms and conditions.  Coverage may be provided by an excess/surplus lines insurer which is not licensed by or subject to the supervision of the insurance department of your state of residence. Policy coverage forms and rates may not be subject to regulation by the insurance department of your state of residence. Excess/surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds and therefore insureds are not protected by such funds in the event of the insurer’s insolvency.