Before checking out any of the drains, gutters, seams, flashing, etc., it is a good idea to start with the debris and any other unnecessary items on the roof.
Common things to look for are leaves, limbs, forgotten tools, and unused materials.
If you have trees above or near, you may want to trim them back. As for the tools and materials, you may be thinking “there’s no way I have that on my roof.” You would be surprised. Throughout a year (and even a season), a number of people go out on our roof. Two examples:
- HVAC units are often on the roof and service technicians must go there for their checkups or repairs.
- Contractors may go up there a few times a year for inspections if you are part of a facilities maintenance plan.
You will want to make sure nothing is left behind on the roof after they are gone.
In the picture below, something as small and simple as a single screw can puncture your roof if stepped on.