Which homeowner would want to brave the winter elements just to check on his roof’s health. Most people believe they are forced to do whatever it takes to keep their roof in good condition, given how important they are in determining the efficiency of a house.

Most people are wrong, it turns out.

Instead, you could check your attic.

“Roofs create an insulated barrier that helps trap heat inside,”Jason Joplin is the program manager of the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence. This center is supported by GAF North America, North America’s largest roofing company. “And since most attic spaces are located right below them, it’s a convenient spot to see potential problem areas and damage without being subjected to falls and injury.”

These are some suggestions on what you should look for.

* Animal damage. You should be concerned about the damage they can cause, including bats, squirrels, and birds taking refuge in your attic. You should immediately call a pest expert if you find any unusual signs such as droppings, nests, and gnawed wires, insulation, or wires.

* Leaks. As sure as the TSA will keep hassling grandmothers, it will soon storm. Shine a flashlight into the attic and look for water spots on ceiling, walls, floor, and ceiling. These are all signs that H2O is finding its way beneath your roof’s flashings and under its shingles.

* Ventilation. “The attic is like the lungs of the house,”Joplin. “It must be able to breathe in order to function properly.”You should clear your vents if they are full of debris.

* Structure. Once you are in the attic take a look upward. Is there any sagging on the roof? Do you see any signs of structural weakness?

For those who are determined to venture outside in the cold, here is a last tip: Why Didn’t I Think of That Myself?You can still inspect for structural defects without having to climb any dangerous ladders. Instead, you can use binoculars to zoom in from the safety of your ground on everything from broken gutters to loose shingles.

Experts recommend that you consult an expert if your roof is in good condition. professional roof contractorWho is insured and who uses high-quality materials such as GAF’s Timberline American Harvest Shingles. You can find a certified contractor from the factory in your local area at www. www.gaf.com.