Most people walk by their roof everyday without even looking at, and why would they? After all, it’s not leaking, so it must be in good condition, right?

Actually, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends homeowners do a roof inspection at least twice a year — once in the spring and once in the fall — to see if they need a roofer or not. Here are a few things the NRCA recommends watching out for.

Start With the Inside.

It’s easiest to start your check on the inside. Go to your attic and look for places where the roof may be sagging, signs of water damage, dark spots and trails, and sunlight shining through. If you see any of these, you might have to find a roofer.

Visually Inspect the Outside.

If the insides checked out, then you should visually inspect your roof’s exterior to see if you might need a roofer. Look for cracked, or missing shingles and scan for loos material or wear around any chimneys, pipes, or vents. You may also need a roofer if you find an excessive amount of shingle granules in the gutters, as this indicates advanced wear and tear.

Check Out Your Drainage System.

Lastly, you may need a roofer if you’re having trouble with your drainage system. Examine your gutters and downspouts, making sure that they’re securely attached. Roofing repair contractors also advise that you make sure all of your drains are open, which will allow water to exit and prevent it from backing up. Your gutters and downspouts should also be void of any and all debris, too.

Look to See How Old Your Roof Is.

Some types of roofing materials have longer lifespans than others. Metal roofs and clay tiled roofs can last for as long as 50 years, while shingled roofs may only last as long as 25 years. If your roof was installed more than a decade ago, you may need a roofer.

The days are getting shorter and the leaves are changing colors, which means now is the time to see if you need a roofer or not. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. Helpful research also found here.