Sometimes homeowners can make simple checks to their home’s roof to find maintenance needs. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends checking your roof during the fall and spring to help spot potential problems.

The NRCA states hiring a professional roofing contractor is best to assist you with an inspection. But some problems are easily noticed even by the untrained eye. For those who choose to do it themselves, consider these NRCA tips.

Ladder safety:

• Make sure the ladder is on solid, level ground.
• Secure the ladder at the top to prevent it from slipping.
• Inspect the ladder, rungs and rails for damage.
• Extend the ladder at least 3 feet beyond the gutter, and angle it 1 foot back from the house for every 4 feet in eave height.
• Always use both hands when climbing the ladder.

Inspection tips:

• Look for shingles that are buckling, curling or blistering; this indicates the end of the shingles' life expectancy. 
• Spot any loose material or wear around chimneys, pipes and other penetrations.
• Identify excessive amounts of shingle granules in your gutters; granules give shingles added weight and protect them from ultraviolet rays.