Winter is on its way!
And in Bakersfield, CA, that means preparing your roof for the season ahead. Winter storms can be tough on roofs, and if yours isn’t in top shape, it could cost you big—both in repairs and higher energy bills.
Your roof is the first line of defense when it comes to keeping your home warm and the PG&E. A secure, well-maintained roof means fewer surprises during those cold months.
So, before winter sneaks up on you, now’s the time to inspect for damage and make sure your roof is ready to weather the storm!
Here’s how you can get started…
How to check for roof damage:
When inspecting your roof, grab your camera’s zoom lens or a drone to get a close look without climbing up.
If something looks off, resist the urge to get on the roof yourself…
Leave that to professional roofers in Bakersfield, CA. They have the experience to assess the situation safely.
Still worried you might miss something?
Call in a pro for a full inspection. Trained eyes can catch problems often overlooked.
Also, don’t forget to check your ceilings!
A small stain could be the first sign of a roof leak. Address it early before it turns into a major (and expensive) repair.
Here’s what to look out for:
- In the attic: Check for stains, leaks, or signs of moisture. These often indicate a roof leak caused by issues like poor flashing, worn-out shingles, or damaged drip edges.
- On the roof: Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Shingles in bad shape need replacing as they’ve reached the end of their life.
- Exterior walls: Blistered or cracked paint could signal moisture trapped in the attic due to poor ventilation. This is often caused by roofing problems that need immediate attention.
Catching these warning signs early can save you money and headaches before the Bakersfield winter takes its toll.
Clean your gutters regularly
Gutters often get ignored in the fall, but they’re crucial for keeping your roof in good shape.
Leaves and debris can clog them up, leaving melted snow with nowhere to go. This can lead to water pooling on your roof, causing serious damage.
If you plan to clean your gutters yourself, proceed with caution. Better yet, call a professional to handle the job safely and thoroughly.
While you’re at it, inspect the gutters closely. Shake them and listen for a sound like a maraca.
That noise could be from asphalt granules that have fallen from your shingles—a clear sign your roof is weakening.
If you notice this, don’t wait. Call a roofing expert in Bakersfield, CA to address the problem before winter hits hard.
Your winter roof inspection checklist
At Superior Roofing, we recommend homeowners in Kern County schedule a roof inspection every year.
Why?
Because catching small issues early can save you from investing in a costly full roof replacement.
Your roof works hard year-round, protecting your family, home, and valuables from Bakersfield’s intense weather. Over time, the elements take a toll, wearing down your roof’s ability to perform effectively.
Most roofing contractors in Bakersfield offer basic inspections that are quick and often free. However, some roofs may need a deeper dive to uncover hidden issues that require immediate attention.
Here are some of the problem areas we check during residential roof inspections:
- Curled shingles
- Damaged flashing
- Cracks in the chimney
- Splits or cracks in roof sheathing
- Daylight shining through the attic
- Improperly vented bathroom exhausts
These are just a few examples of what we look for during an inspection.
Access the printable PDF roof inspection checklist here
Homeowners: Let’s get real…
Are you really going to climb up on your roof and inspect it before winter rolls in? Probably not. And that’s okay.
We’re ready and waiting during the workweek to handle it for you. We’ll inspect your roof, point out any issues, and provide a clear, no-pressure quote if any work is needed.
Give us a call and let’s make sure your home is protected this winter.
Drip edge
Roof flashing
Sealants
Foot traffic and warranties
During a re-roof, workers are moving around constantly, and sometimes that leads to accidental damage. Keep an eye out for excessive footprints, leftover debris, or any other signs of carelessness. A good roofing crew will clean up daily and notify you immediately if something gets damaged.
Now, let’s talk about warranties...
Even with the best tips, nothing beats the peace of mind a solid warranty provides.
Be sure to understand what’s included—and more importantly, what’s not. Ask specific questions about exclusions and whether regular maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid.
Keep in mind that craftsmanship and manufacturer warranties are separate. The manufacturer warranty covers your shingles, while the craftsmanship warranty comes from the contractor.
If you’ve chosen a specific shingle, make sure your contractor is a certified installer for that brand. Any reputable roofing company should back their work with at least a 10-year warranty.
Roof replacements are a big investment, and mistakes can happen during the process. A good warranty ensures your investment is protected and saves you from unexpected costs later.
If you’re planning a roofing project, these tips will help you feel more confident managing the process. Got questions or ready to book a consultation? Reach out to us—we’re happy to inspect your roof, answer your questions, and provide a detailed, no-hidden-cost quote.
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