### FAQs: Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Q: How often should I inspect my roof?

A: Seasonal inspections (4 times yearly) with monthly quick checks during problem seasons. Professional inspection annually for roofs over 10 years old.

Q: Can I walk on my roof safely?

A: Only if slope is 6/12 or less, weather conditions are good, and you have proper safety equipment. Never walk on wet, icy, or damaged roofs.

Q: What are the most common roof problems?

A: Flashing failures (40% of leaks), shingle damage from weather, clogged gutters, and poor ventilation. Most are preventable with regular maintenance.

Q: When should I replace vs. repair my roof?

A: Replace if more than 25% needs repair, roof is near end of expected life, or repair costs exceed 50% of replacement value.

Q: How do I find roof leaks?

A: Start in the attic during rain, use hose testing from outside, or hire professionals with thermal imaging equipment. Water travels before dropping, so entry point may be far from interior damage.

Q: Are roof inspections tax deductible?

A: Generally no for personal residences, but yes for rental properties. Maintenance costs are typically deductible for business/rental property.

Q: Should I remove snow from my roof?

A: Yes, after 6+ inches accumulation or if ice dams form. Use roof rake from ground level, never climb on snowy roofs.

Q: How do I prevent ice dams?

A: Proper attic insulation and ventilation are key. Seal air leaks, maintain consistent roof temperatures, and ensure adequate ventilation.

Your roof silently protects your home's structure, contents, and occupants 24/7, 365 days per year. The homeowners who enjoy 25+ year roof life with minimal problems are those who conduct regular inspections and address small problems before they become large disasters.

Remember: your roof is working hardest when you can't work on it – during storms, extreme temperatures, and harsh weather. Seasonal inspections during good weather ensure your roof is ready for whatever nature delivers.# Chapter 10: Exterior Home Maintenance: Siding, Paint, and Foundation Care

SHOCKING FACT: Exterior maintenance neglect costs American homeowners an average of $11,000 in premature repairs, with foundation problems alone averaging $8,000-$25,000 to fix. Yet 78% of homeowners perform no regular exterior maintenance, allowing small issues like peeling paint or minor foundation settling to escalate into structural disasters. A $500 annual exterior maintenance routine prevents 85% of these costly problems.

Your home's exterior is its armor against the elements – rain, wind, sun, temperature extremes, and pests. When this protective barrier fails, water infiltration destroys structure, insulation, and interior finishes while creating health hazards from mold and pest intrusion.

This chapter provides your complete exterior maintenance system, covering siding care, paint protection, foundation monitoring, and the seasonal tasks that keep your home's envelope intact while preserving its value and curb appeal.