A Fall Roof Check for Cedar Rapids Homes, From the Ground

By Cedar Rapids Roofing · November 2, 2026

Two-story house with a shingled roof at dusk, porch light on — Photo: Dalia Al-Refai / Pexels, Pexels License

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends that homeowners inspect their roofs at least twice a year, preferably in spring and fall, plus after severe weather such as a hailstorm. [NRCA] Before snow covers your Cedar Rapids roof, here's what to look for, mostly without climbing up.

Stay on the ground

NRCA does not recommend that homeowners access or walk on roofs unless they have the experience and equipment to do it safely. For steep-slope roofs, an inspection can typically be done from the ground or a ladder. [NRCA] If you must use a ladder, NRCA says it should be firmly braced or tied off, with rubber safety feet. [NRCA]

What to look for outside

On asphalt shingle roofs, curling or splitting shingles are evidence of deterioration, and dislodged or missing tabs should be repaired. [NRCA]
Cracked, warped or missing shingles, loose seams, deteriorated flashing, and lots of shingle granules collecting in gutters or downspouts. [NRCA]
Leaves and debris in valleys, gutters and roof drains, where they limit drainage. [NRCA]
Walls and chimneys that meet the roof surface. [NRCA]

What to look for inside

Indoors, NRCA says cracked paint, discolored plasterboard and peeling wallpaper can be signs of damaged roof areas. [NRCA]

If the inspection shows repairs are needed, NRCA recommends promptly hiring an experienced roofing contractor rather than attempting repairs yourself. [NRCA]

Sources

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