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Check for Ridge Vents — Inspect Ridge Vent and Cap Shingles

Beginner3 hours

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Roof Inspection · Step 5 of 7

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Now, shift your focus to the ridge lines of your roof, especially on smaller, isolated roof sections that might cover small attic areas. The video highlights a critical issue: the absence of an upper ridge vent on such a section. Ridge vents are the exhaust component of an attic ventilation system, allowing hot, moist air to escape. Without them, even with functional soffit vents (intake), air circulation is severely restricted, trapping heat and moisture in the attic. Look for continuous ridge vents along the highest points of the roof; if absent on a sloped roof section, it's a significant concern.

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FAQs

What are the most important safety precautions for a DIY roof inspection?

Always prioritize safety by using a stable ladder on level ground and having a spotter if possible. Never attempt to inspect your roof in wet, icy, or windy conditions. Wear non-slip shoes and safety glasses, and only access the roof if you are comfortable and it is structurally sound.

Is the Wyze Cam OG Telephoto camera really necessary, or can I use a smartphone?

While a smartphone can work for basic visual checks, the Wyze Cam OG Telephoto offers 3X optical zoom and color night vision, allowing for much more detailed inspection of high or hard-to-reach areas from the ground or ladder. This helps identify subtle damage that might be missed otherwise, providing a safer and more thorough inspection without always needing to climb onto the roof itself.

How often should I inspect my roof, and when is the best time of year to do it?

It's recommended to inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, to prepare for changing seasons and identify any winter or summer damage. You should also conduct an immediate inspection after any severe weather event, such as heavy winds, hail, or significant snowfall, to check for new damage.

What are some common signs of roof damage or wear I should look for?

Look for cracked, curled, or missing shingles, especially around eaves and valleys. Pay attention to granules collecting in gutters, which indicates shingle wear. Also, check for moss or algae growth, rust on flashing, or sagging spots on the roofline, as these can all signal problems.

Transcript
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roof was done pretty well. You got sophet vents down below. Little valley here was done correctly, but we don't have that upper ridge vent. It's a small section, but how is any of that air supposed to release out of this small little attic area? Lack of roof ventilation. Here's the interesting part. Somebody cut the sheathing out. And they were planning on putting it in, but they never did.

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