Shingle Roof Inspection Checklist: Complete 50-Point DIY Guide for Myrtle Beach Homeowners
The professional-grade checklist our inspectors use—now available for free. Know exactly what to look for, when to inspect, and when to call the experts.
David Karimi
Licensed SC Contractor | GAF Master Elite
Expert Review: This guide was written and reviewed by David Karimi, a licensed South Carolina roofing contractor with 15+ years experience and 5,000+ roof inspections completed across Myrtle Beach and Horry County. Last updated January 2025.
Quick Answer: Essential Inspection Items
The 5 most critical things to check on your shingle roof:
- 1Missing, cracked, or curling shingles — indicates age or storm damage
- 2Granule loss in gutters — sign of advanced shingle wear
- 3Damaged flashing — #1 source of roof leaks
- 4Sagging areas — indicates structural problems
- 5Water stains in attic — evidence of active leaks
Myrtle Beach Timing: Inspect twice yearly—Spring (March-April) and Fall (September-October)—plus after any storm with 50+ mph winds.
What's in This Guide
Your shingle roof is your home's first line of defense against Myrtle Beach's challenging coastal weather—from summer hurricanes to salt air corrosion. Yet a shocking 68% of homeowners have never inspected their roof, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association. That oversight costs American homeowners an average of $7,500 in preventable emergency repairs every year.
I'm David Karimi, owner of Weather Shield Roofing and a GAF Master Elite certified contractor. In 15 years of inspecting roofs across Myrtle Beach, I've seen countless cases where a 20-minute inspection could have prevented a $15,000 emergency repair. That's why I'm sharing the exact 50-point checklist our professional team uses—completely free.
Myrtle Beach Reality Check
South Carolina coastal homes face 3x more roof stress than inland properties due to salt air corrosion, intense UV exposure (20% higher than national average), hurricane-force winds, and 50+ inches of annual rainfall. Regular inspection isn't optional here—it's essential for protecting your investment.
Why Regular Roof Inspection Matters (The Numbers Don't Lie)
Without Regular Inspection
- ✗Average emergency repair cost: $7,500+
- ✗Roof lifespan reduced by 5-10 years
- ✗Insurance claims often denied
- ✗Water damage to interior: $3,000-$15,000
- ✗Mold remediation: $2,000-$6,000
- ✗Property value decreases 5-10%
With Twice-Yearly Inspection
- Catch problems when repair costs $200-$500
- Extend roof life to full 25-30 years
- Maintain insurance coverage
- Prevent interior water damage
- Document condition for future sale
- Peace of mind during storm season
The ROI of Regular Inspection
A professional roof inspection takes 45-60 minutes and is typically FREE from licensed contractors (including Weather Shield Roofing). Compare that to the cost of ignoring your roof:
$0
Professional inspection cost
$200-$500
Early repair (caught by inspection)
$7,500+
Emergency repair (ignored too long)
Exterior Inspection Checklist: 25 Points to Check
Safety First
Perform this inspection from the ground using binoculars. Never walk on a wet, steep, or damaged roof. For close-up inspection, hire a licensed professional with proper safety equipment.
Shingle Condition (8 Points)
Shingles are your roof's armor. In Myrtle Beach's coastal climate, they face constant UV exposure, salt air, and storm damage. Here's exactly what to look for:
Missing shingles
Exposed underlayment or deck visible
Cracked shingles
Splits or fractures across shingle surface
Curling edges
Corners lifting upward (age indicator)
Buckling shingles
Wavy or distorted appearance
Blistering
Bubble-like bumps (moisture trapped inside)
Granule loss
Bare spots or excessive granules in gutters
Moss or algae
Green/black growth (moisture retention)
Color fading
Uneven coloration (UV damage)
Myrtle Beach Alert: If you see more than 5-10 missing granules per shingle or black streaking (algae), your shingles are nearing end of life. Salt air accelerates this process by 20-30% compared to inland roofs.
Flashing & Penetrations (7 Points)
Flashing failures cause 90% of roof leaks. These are the metal pieces that seal transitions—where your roof meets chimneys, vents, skylights, and walls.
Chimney flashing
Check for rust, lifting, gaps, or cracks
Vent pipe boots
Rubber boots crack in 7-10 years
Skylight flashing
Sealant deterioration common
Valley flashing
High water flow areas—critical
Step flashing (walls)
Where roof meets vertical walls
Drip edge
Metal at roof edge directing water to gutters
Caulk/sealant condition
Should be pliable, not cracked
Pro Tip: Salt air corrodes metal flashing faster than inland areas. In Myrtle Beach, we recommend aluminum or galvanized steel flashing be inspected annually and replaced every 15-20 years, even if the shingles are still good.
Gutters & Drainage (6 Points)
Gutters channel water away from your foundation and prevent fascia rot. With Myrtle Beach's 50+ inches of annual rain, proper drainage is critical.
Granule accumulation
Excessive = shingle wear (some is normal)
Debris/blockages
Leaves, pine needles, debris
Secure attachment
Gutters pulling away from fascia
Proper slope
Water should flow toward downspouts
Downspout extensions
Direct water 4-6 ft from foundation
Standing water
Indicates improper slope or blockage
Structure & Overall Condition (4 Points)
Sagging or dips
Roof line should be straight—any sag is serious
Soffit condition
Check for rot, pest damage, peeling paint
Fascia boards
Wood should be solid, not soft or rotted
Tree proximity
Branches within 10 ft can damage roof
Critical: Any sagging in the roof line requires immediate professional evaluation. This indicates structural failure and can result in roof collapse if ignored.
Interior/Attic Inspection Checklist: 15 Points
The attic reveals what you can't see from outside—active leaks, moisture damage, ventilation issues, and structural problems. Bring a flashlight and camera.
Water Damage Signs (5 Points)
- Water stains on rafters or sheathing
- Daylight visible through roof boards
- Damp or wet insulation
- Mold or mildew presence
- Rust on metal components
Ventilation Check (5 Points)
- Ridge vents clear and functional
- Soffit vents unobstructed
- Gable vents (if present) clear
- Bathroom/dryer vents exit properly
- Attic feels excessively hot (poor ventilation)
Structural Integrity (5 Points)
Rafters straight and solid
No cracking, sagging, or rot
Sheathing (decking) condition
Plywood should be dry and firm
Collar ties/rafter ties intact
Horizontal supports between rafters
No pest damage
Termites, carpenter ants, rodents
Insulation properly placed
Not blocking vents, not compressed
Myrtle Beach Humidity Alert: Our 70-80% year-round humidity makes proper attic ventilation critical. Without it, moisture condenses on roof sheathing, causing rot and mold even without active leaks. If your attic feels like a sauna in summer, you have a ventilation problem.
Myrtle Beach Seasonal Inspection Schedule
Timing your inspections with Myrtle Beach's weather patterns maximizes effectiveness and catches seasonal damage before it worsens.
Spring (March-April)
CRITICAL- Full exterior and interior inspection
- Check for winter storm damage
- Clear gutters of winter debris
- Trim trees before growth season
- Schedule repairs before hurricane season
Why: Catch winter damage while repair schedules are lighter. Hurricane season starts June 1st.
Summer (June-August)
- Post-storm inspection (after each storm)
- Check attic ventilation (heat buildup)
- Look for UV damage on shingles
- Monitor for moss/algae growth
Why: Peak hurricane season. Inspect after any named storm or severe weather event.
Fall (September-October)
CRITICAL- Complete inspection before winter
- Assess any hurricane season damage
- Clean gutters of fallen leaves
- Check flashing and seals
- Schedule any needed repairs
Why: Last chance for repairs before winter. Contractors book up for post-hurricane work.
Winter (December-February)
- Interior/attic check only (safer)
- Monitor for ice dam issues (rare here)
- Check for condensation in attic
- Verify bathroom vents working
Why: Limited exterior work due to weather. Focus on interior monitoring.
8 Warning Signs That Require Immediate Professional Attention
These issues require professional inspection within 24-48 hours. Delaying can result in exponentially more expensive repairs.
Active Roof Leaks
Water stains spreading on ceilings or walls
Multiple Missing Shingles
More than 2-3 shingles missing (storm damage)
Visible Sagging
Dip or bow in roof line
Massive Granule Loss
Gutters filled with granules; bare shingles visible
Daylight in Attic
Light visible through roof boards
Flashing Completely Lifted
Metal separating from chimney, vent, or wall
Extensive Moss Coverage
Large areas covered in moss (>25% of roof)
Buckling or Waving
Shingles appear wavy across large areas
See Any of These Signs?
Don't wait—every day of delay can add hundreds to your repair bill. Weather Shield Roofing offers free emergency inspections for Myrtle Beach homeowners.
DIY vs. Professional Roof Inspection: Which Do You Need?
| Factor | DIY Inspection | Professional Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (your time) | FREE from most contractors |
| Safety | Ground-level only | Full roof access with safety equipment |
| Areas covered | Visible exterior, attic | All areas including flashings, valleys, deck |
| Equipment | Binoculars, flashlight | Moisture meters, drones, infrared cameras |
| Expertise | Basic checklist | 15+ years experience, trained eye |
| Documentation | Your photos | Professional report (insurance-ready) |
| Hidden issues | May miss | Trained to find hidden damage |
| Best for | Routine monitoring | Annual inspection, storm damage, buying/selling |
Our Recommendation
Do both. Perform your own DIY inspection twice yearly using this checklist, and schedule a professional inspection at least once per year—more often if your roof is over 15 years old or after any significant storm.
Since professional inspections are FREE from reputable contractors like Weather Shield Roofing, there's no financial reason to skip them. A trained inspector will catch issues you'd never spot, and their documentation protects you for insurance claims and home sales. Need help vetting contractors? Check our guide on questions to ask a roofing contractor.
Post-Storm Inspection Protocol for Myrtle Beach
Living in Hurricane Alley means storm damage inspection is a regular necessity. Here's the protocol we recommend after any severe weather event.
When to Inspect After a Storm
- Winds exceeded 50 mph
- Hail of any size reported
- Tornado or waterspout warning in area
- Heavy debris (branches, limbs) fell
- Named tropical storm or hurricane
- Neighbors reporting roof damage
Step 1: Wait for Safety (First 24 Hours)
Don't inspect immediately after a storm. Wait for conditions to stabilize, power lines to be addressed, and debris to be cleared. Never walk on a wet roof.
Step 2: Ground-Level Walk-Around
Walk around your property looking for: shingles or debris on the ground, visible damage from ground level, downed tree branches on or near roof, gutter damage, siding damage (often accompanies roof damage).
Step 3: Document Everything
Take photos and videos of any damage—including wide shots showing your property and close-ups of specific damage. This documentation is critical for insurance claims. Note the date, time, and weather event.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company
File a claim promptly. South Carolina law gives insurance companies 30 days to acknowledge claims and 45 days to investigate. Don't delay—storm damage claims have time limits.
Step 5: Schedule Professional Inspection
A licensed contractor can identify hidden damage, document it professionally for insurance, and provide a repair estimate. Many contractors (including Weather Shield) offer free storm damage inspections.
Warning: After major storms, "storm chasers" appear offering cheap repairs. Always verify licensing, insurance, and local references. Licensed SC contractors are registered at llr.sc.gov.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Shingle Roofs
Regular maintenance extends your roof's life and prevents most problems. Here's what you can do between inspections.
Keep Gutters Clean
QuarterlyClean gutters 2-4 times per year. Clogged gutters cause water backup under shingles and fascia rot.
Trim Overhanging Trees
AnnuallyKeep branches 10+ feet from roof. Falling limbs damage shingles; shade promotes moss growth.
Remove Debris
As needed (after storms)Clear leaves, pine needles, and debris from valleys and flat areas. Debris traps moisture.
Check Attic Ventilation
Twice yearlyEnsure vents aren't blocked by insulation or debris. Poor ventilation causes heat buildup and moisture.
Address Minor Repairs Promptly
As issues ariseFix small issues before they become big ones. A $200 repair today prevents a $2,000 repair next year.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Annually (minimum)Annual professional inspection catches what you miss. Free from most contractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I inspect my shingle roof in Myrtle Beach?▼
Inspect at least twice yearly—spring (March-April) and fall (September-October). Also inspect after any storm with 50+ mph winds or hail. Professional inspections should be done annually. Our coastal climate (salt air, UV, hurricanes) requires more vigilance than inland areas.
What are the most critical items on a shingle roof inspection checklist?▼
The five most critical items are: (1) Missing, cracked, or curling shingles; (2) Granule loss in gutters; (3) Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys; (4) Sagging areas in the roof deck; (5) Water stains or daylight visible in the attic. These issues require immediate professional attention.
Can I do a roof inspection myself or should I hire a professional?▼
You can safely perform ground-level visual inspections and attic inspections yourself. Use binoculars from the ground—never walk on a wet or steep roof. For comprehensive inspection including roof surface, flashings, and hidden damage, hire a licensed professional. Many offer free inspections.
What does a professional roof inspection include?▼
A professional 50-point inspection covers: complete exterior examination (shingles, flashing, vents, gutters), interior attic inspection (structure, ventilation, moisture), moisture detection with specialized equipment, detailed photo documentation, remaining roof life assessment, and repair vs. replacement recommendations. Weather Shield Roofing provides this free.
How long does a shingle roof last in Myrtle Beach?▼
Standard 3-tab shingles: 15-20 years. Architectural shingles: 20-30 years. Premium shingles (GAF Timberline HDZ): 25-30+ years. Coastal factors (salt air, UV, hurricanes, humidity) reduce lifespan by 15-20% compared to inland areas. Regular maintenance can extend life by 5-10 years.
What are warning signs that my roof needs immediate attention?▼
Signs requiring immediate professional inspection: active leaks or spreading water stains, multiple missing shingles, visible sagging, excessive granules in gutters, daylight through roof boards, completely lifted flashing, extensive moss coverage, widespread buckling or curling. These require inspection within 24-48 hours.
Is roof inspection covered by homeowners insurance?▼
Routine maintenance inspections are not covered. However, if you suspect storm damage, your insurance may cover inspection as part of a claim. If damage is found, insurance typically pays for both inspection and repairs. Many contractors offer free storm damage inspections that can be used for insurance documentation.
What should I do if I find damage during my inspection?▼
Document it immediately with photos. Do NOT attempt DIY repairs (can void warranties). Cover active leaks with a tarp if rain is coming. Contact a licensed contractor within 24-48 hours. For storm damage, file an insurance claim. Get 2-3 written estimates. Verify contractor licensing before hiring.
Get Your FREE Professional Roof Inspection
You've got the checklist—now let the experts verify your findings. Weather Shield Roofing offers comprehensive 50-point inspections at no cost and no obligation to Myrtle Beach homeowners.
What You Get:
- Complete 50-point roof inspection
- Attic and ventilation assessment
- Digital photo documentation
- Written condition report
- Repair recommendations (if needed)
- Insurance claim assistance
Why Weather Shield:
- GAF Master Elite Certified (top 3%)
- 5.0★ Google Rating (147 reviews)
- Licensed & Insured in SC
- 15+ years Myrtle Beach experience
- 5,000+ roofs inspected
- Family-owned, community trusted
Serving Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, and all of Horry County
About the Author
David Karimi is a licensed South Carolina roofing contractor and owner of Weather Shield Roofing. With 15+ years of experience and 5,000+ roof inspections across Myrtle Beach and Horry County, he is one of only 3% of contractors nationwide to earn GAF Master Elite certification.
Credentials: SC Licensed Contractor | GAF Master Elite | BBB A+ Rating | 5.0★ Google Reviews (147 reviews)
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