Key Areas to Check During Your Roof Inspection

Your roof goes through a lot during the year, especially in Tasmania where weather patterns can change quickly. From heavy winds and rain to heat and frost, it's normal for parts of your roof to wear down over time. Regular roof inspections are one of the simplest ways to catch small problems before they lead to major issues like leaks or structural damage.

Scheduling a lookover around the start of spring is a smart move. It gives you a chance to spot damage left behind from the colder months, like displaced tiles or blocked gutters. Winter tends to hide damage under rain and debris, but once things dry out, it’s easier to see what needs attention. Whether you’re climbing up for a closer look or hiring someone to handle it, knowing what to check can make all the difference in keeping your roof solid and strong.

Stevenson Roofing has built its reputation on dependable service and expert workmanship across Tasmania, and we always recommend checking your roof before issues grow more serious.

Checking For Damaged Or Missing Tiles

Tiles are the first line of defence against the elements, so even one missing or broken tile can throw things out of balance. Damaged tiles might not seem like a big issue at first glance, but letting them sit there can cause slow leaks that feed into layers beneath your roof. Over time, that turns into soaked insulation, sagging timber, or even internal ceiling stains.

When doing an inspection, focus on:

- Cracks, chips, or obvious breaks in the tiles

- Discolouration or water stains near tile edges

- Gaps where a tile might have slipped or blown away

- Piles of tile debris collecting in gutters

From the ground, you can often spot missing or misaligned tiles just by scanning across the surface. If you notice patterns that look uneven or if something just doesn’t look right, it might be time to take a closer look, preferably with binoculars or from a safe height. Sometimes, a gap that looks small from a distance turns out to be the start of a larger issue, like exposed underlayment or mould buildup underneath.

Inspecting The Roof Valleys

Roof valleys are where two slopes meet and are usually the main channels guiding water off the roof. Because they gather the most water flow, they’re one of the most leak-prone sections. Valleys clogged with leaves or shifting materials can cause water to pool in spots it shouldn’t, increasing the chance of leaks.

Start with a visual scan to check if:

- Valleys have a clear path with no built-up debris

- Flashing in the valley sits flat and isn’t peeled or bubbling

- Surrounding tiles or materials aren’t crumbling or lifting

Timber or leaf matter stuck in these areas can quickly turn into clogged drains or soggy underlayers. It’s even more common for debris to collect here during late winter when branches are shedding and winds are high. A quick spring inspection helps reset things before heavy rain hits again later in the year. If you’re not confident walking on your roof, even just cleaning out accessible parts of your valleys and watching out for visible wear can go a long way to keeping everything in working order.

Evaluating Roof Flashing

Roof flashing plays a quiet but important role in keeping water out of your home. It’s the thin metal you’ll find around chimneys, vents, skylights, and where roof planes join. Its job is to seal those tighter spots where water might try to sneak in. If flashing is damaged, even slightly, it can lead to slow leaks that go unnoticed until you’re dealing with soaked ceilings or stained walls inside.

You don’t need to climb up to check every detail, but a good inspection from the ground or with a ladder can tell you a lot. Keep an eye out for:

- Flashing that’s pulled away from surfaces or looks warped

- Rust spots or discolouration

- Lifting edges, especially where flashing meets brick or tile

- Dried or cracked sealants

Sometimes flashing damage is easy to spot, like when it’s bent or peeling up at the corners. But even without visible damage, ageing sealants or gaps between the flashing and roof structure can be enough to let moisture in. If you’ve had high winds or a rough winter, early spring is a smart time to give these areas a once-over before the next round of wet weather.

Assessing The Gutters And Downspouts

Gutters don’t just move water off the edge of your roof. They control where all that runoff ends up, guiding it safely away from your walls, windows, and foundations. When they get clogged or leak at the seams, water begins to back up and that can lead to damp roof edges or even pooling around your home.

Here’s a quick checklist for your gutter inspection:

- Check for sagging or bowing sections that may hold water

- Look inside for built-up leaves, twigs, or soil

- Make sure brackets and clips are still solid and fastened

- Watch that downpipes are clear and flowing away from your house

- Inspect joins for leaks or signs of rust

Debris tends to pile up over winter, so now’s a great time to clear it out before spring showers become too frequent. While hose testing can help spot blocked downpipes, keep in mind that sometimes problems can be hidden from view, especially if water is diverting into places it shouldn’t. One homeowner in Hobart noticed a dark patch on their eaves and assumed it was a stain, but the real issue was a blocked downpipe causing water to overflow back toward the roof. Regular checks can help catch things like that before they turn into expensive repairs.

Looking For Moss, Mold, And Algae

Moisture-loving growth like moss and algae tend to pop up where shade and dampness meet. You’ll usually find these along the south-facing sides of your roof or areas that don’t get much sunlight. While they might look harmless at first, they can slowly eat away at roof materials or even wedge their way between tiles, disrupting how water flows off your roof.

Early spring is one of the best times to catch this type of growth. Look for:

- Green or dark patches along tiles or roof edges

- Spongy or slippery areas if you’re walking on the roof (only do so safely)

- A sudden increase in plant matter near gutters or downpipes

Even if it looks like just surface build-up, moss can hold moisture, which over time keeps the roof damp longer than it should be. That makes it easier for decay or mould to settle in. If you see widespread growth, especially in the same spots year after year, it usually means that area needs better drainage, improved airflow, or attention to the materials being used.

How to Keep Your Roof Ready for the Seasons Ahead

Now's the perfect time to give your roof the attention it needs. Spring in Hobart brings longer days and clearer skies, making it easier to notice signs of wear and tear left over from winter. From checking your tiles and flashing to making sure your gutters are clear and free-flowing, each step makes your roof stronger for what’s next.

Staying on top of these checks doesn't take long, and the peace of mind it brings is worth it. When your roof is ready to take on the seasons ahead, you enjoy more comfort and avoid those surprise moments when leaks or damage show up out of nowhere. If something doesn’t look right or you're unsure, it’s always better to let someone experienced take a proper look.

Stevenson Roofing has you covered if you're after roof maintenance that keeps your home safe and sound. Learn more about our roofing Hobart Tasmania services and prepare your roof for whatever the Tasmanian seasons throw its way. A quick check now can save you from bigger headaches later, so don’t put it off—let us help you keep your roof in top shape.