So what can the average home owner do to protect the roof system and the structural integrity of his home? 

Easy if you are afraid of heights you can use binoculars to check the roof. 

Look for missing shingle's, look at all roof penetrations ie; vent pipes, chimney's, skylights and vents. 

Here you are looking for rubber seals around pipes that they are not rotted or deteriorated. 

Anything that has tar around it is not permeant and is a maintenance item.

Next go in the attic preferable during the day, once in the attic shut off the light and you should be able to see day light at the eaves, this is the area at the lowest point in the attic. 

If you can not then the insulation is blocking the soffit vents and that's not good. 

Check all the roof protrusions, for signs of water staining around them, can you see any daylight around these protrusions, if so this is a leaker. 

While in the attic look at the insulation is it flattened out, dark in color or not covering the interior ceiling if so you should consider adding new insulation. 

This is money well spent, just don't block of the soffits.

Just checking the roof system and attic you can get a good feel for condition they are in. 

Don't be afraid to call in roofing contractors and compare what they tell you. 

A reliable contractor is one who is a member of the BBB and is also an approved contractor by shingle manufactures. 

Good Luck and remember to look up!

Anthony Montagna