The Roofing Timeline: Decoding Life Expectancies for Every Roof Type

Here in Central Texas, summer doesn’t just arrive; it makes a grand, sweltering entrance. The season brings long days of intense sun, triple-digit temperatures, and the ever-present threat of powerful thunderstorms rolling in with little warning. While we’re busy finding ways to stay cool indoors, our roofs are taking the full force of this seasonal onslaught. This is precisely why a summer roof inspection is not just a good idea—it’s a critical piece of home maintenance. The combination of thermal shock (the stress on materials from cycling between extreme heat and cooler night temperatures) and storm season can expose hidden vulnerabilities. At Graduate Contracting, we believe in proactive care to prevent small issues from turning into major, costly emergencies. Use this essential checklist to perform your own assessment. It will help you spot potential trouble and know exactly when to call in a professional to ensure your home is protected all season long. The View from the Ground (Your Safe DIY Check) You can learn a lot about your roof's health without ever leaving the ground. Grab a pair of binoculars and, on a clear day, walk around the perimeter of your home to look for these key indicators. ☐ Check for Curling or Cracked Shingles : Look at the slopes that get the most direct sun. Are the edges of the shingles turning upwards (curling) or do you see distinct cracks? Intense UV exposure and heat can bake the life out of asphalt shingles, making them brittle and inflexible. This is a clear sign of aging and heat damage. ☐ Scan for Missing Shingles : Pay close attention to the ridges and edges of the roof. Recent spring or early summer storms with high winds can easily tear off shingles that have been weakened by age or heat. Every missing shingle is a potential entry point for water. ☐ Look for Granules in Your Gutters : Check the downspout outlets for an accumulation of black, sand-like granules. These granules are the primary protective layer for your shingles. When they wash away, the shingle is exposed and will deteriorate rapidly. A few granules are normal, but a large accumulation is a warning sign. ☐ Examine Flashing and Vents : Look at the areas around your chimney, pipes, and any roof vents. Do you see any visible gaps, rust spots on the metal flashing, or sealant that looks cracked and dry? These penetration points are the most common sources of leaks. ☐ Note Any Streaking or Discoloration : Dark streaks on your roof are typically caused by algae (Gloeocapsa magma). While primarily cosmetic, heavy growth can trap moisture and indicates your shingles are retaining heat and water, a sign of older, less effective materials. Inside Your Home (The Attic Inspection) Your attic provides a direct look at the underside of your roof deck and is the first place a leak will show itself. ☐ Look for Daylight : On a bright day, go into your attic and turn off the lights. Look up at the roof deck. Do you see any pinpricks of light coming through? Even the smallest hole is an invitation for water during the next downpour. ☐ Check for Water Stains or Streaks : Scan the underside of the plywood roof deck and the rafters for any dark stains, streaks, or signs of moisture. Pay special attention to the areas around vents and chimneys. ☐ Examine the Insulation : Look for areas where the insulation appears damp, matted down, or discolored. This is a telltale sign of a slow, persistent leak that needs immediate attention. ☐ Note Musty Odors or Signs of Mold : A persistent musty smell or visible mold/mildew growth is a clear indicator of a moisture problem, likely stemming from a leak or poor attic ventilation. The Professional Check-Up (When to Call Graduate Contracting) If your checks from the ground or in the attic reveal any of the issues above, it’s time to call for a professional, hands-on inspection. Our trained experts will safely get on your roof to perform a detailed assessment that you can't do from the ground. ☐ A Hands-On Shingle and Flashing Test : We will physically inspect the integrity of shingles and test the seals around all flashing. ☐ A Check of All Penetrations : We’ll examine every vent, pipe, and seam for compromised seals or damage. ☐ A Gutter and Drainage System Review : We’ll ensure your gutters are clear and directing water away from your foundation effectively. ☐ A Comprehensive Condition Report : We provide you with a detailed report of our findings, complete with photos and clear recommendations, giving you the power to make an informed decision. Don't let a small, sun-baked crack turn into a major summer storm catastrophe. Being proactive is the key to protecting your home and your peace of mind. Spotted a warning sign on your checklist? Contact Graduate Contracting today to schedule a professional, no-obligation roof inspection and ensure your home is ready for whatever summer brings.