What Happens During a Roof Inspection?
You depend on your roof to stay strong through years of brutal weather and potential damage. It blocks you from snow, winds, water, trees and sun, keeping you safe and secure from potentially hazardous outdoor conditions. While it seems like your roof will stand up to anything, this wear and tear can turn minor issues into extensive structural damage over time. To protect yourself from expensive repairs, schedule a professional roof inspection. Roof inspectors can spot and solve problems before they become serious. Learn more about roof inspection requirements and benefits so you can properly maintain your home.What Is a Roof Inspection?
A roof inspection involves checking your roof specifically for damage, wear and hazards. A roof inspector will examine your roof’s interior, exterior, build quality and materials to ensure everything is in good condition. Often, roofing companies will perform roof inspections on your house. This is different from a home inspection, where a home inspector will survey most of the home for problems but may not get up on the roof to perform a detailed assessment of all the roof’s features.Benefits of Roof Inspection
Keeping track of everything can be difficult with so many vital components to your roof. You might not know when to get a roofing inspection performed. Every homeowner can benefit from a professional roof inspection, especially if your roof is older and exposed to harsher weather. Professional roof inspectors are trained to inspect every part of your roof. They can spot small and large issues and will be able to diagnose the causes quickly and effectively. Regular roof inspections can also help spot and fix roof issues before they become expensive repairs. The longer a roof goes without inspection, the more likely minor problems will turn into big ones. Roof inspections also ensure you and your home stay safe. Damaged roofs can cause injuries, expose you to the elements and let in animals. Your roof protects your house from the outside, keeping heat or cold air inside and providing essential shelter to your family. An unsafe roof can mean serious danger and expenses for you, so keeping it secure is critical.
Do I Need a Roof Inspection?
You might need to get your roof inspected for several reasons. There are financial and safety motivations for inspections since your roof is an essential part of your home and can add value and security to the structure. Some reasons you might need a roof inspection include:- New roof: If you have a new roof or recently had extensive roof work done, getting a new roof inspection ensures everything has turned out correctly. The last thing you want after paying for a new roof is to find out that there are serious issues several months down the road.
- Storm damage: If you make a storm damage claim, you’re often required to get a roof inspection for insurance purposes. Additionally, even without an insurance claim, storms can cause hidden roof damage that you need an expert to pick up on. Emergency roof services can save you from extensive roof and water damage after a storm.
- Roof appraisal: If you’re buying or selling a house, an inspection ensures there’s nothing wrong with the roof. A passing inspection can help boost your home value if you sell the house. If you’re buying, assessments tell you how much work you’ll have to invest in repairs on a new home.
- Regular inspections: Periodic roof inspections can help catch roof issues before they become expensive. These are especially important if your roof is older or if you live somewhere with harsh weather conditions, as roofs can deteriorate more quickly in these situations.
Roof Inspection Checklist
A professional roof inspector will have several roof inspection requirements to follow when checking your roof. While performing a visual inspection yourself can help you spot bigger, more obvious problems, you should always hire a professional. It’s better to hire professional roofing contractors and inspectors since they’ll be trained to examine and catch roof concerns. When performing a roof inspection, inspectors will examine the roof’s weak points, check the interior and exterior structure and evaluate the features for damage. Roof inspectors will look at major areas like:Gutters and Downspouts
Inspectors will examine the gutters and downspouts for blockages and damages. They’ll ensure the downspouts are secure and that the gutters have no standing water. You can clear out your gutters to help keep the roof clean. Cutting branches from the side of the house can also help keep debris out of the gutters.Flashing
Flashing redirects water away from joists where walls extend through roofs. They’re made from plastic, metal or another waterproof material. Flashing must follow strict building requirements, so inspectors will ensure your flashing installation is up to code. If it isn’t, they’ll make recommendations for your next step.Attic
Homes with attic access will need inspection as well. Professionals will check for leaks, holes, support, venting and installation problems. If your attic is unfinished, the bare wood can make it easy to see water damage or stains that signify exterior roof damage.Shingles
Shingles help protect your roof from wind, water damage and animals. Over time, shingles might curl due to several issues, which inspectors can diagnose. Water damage, age and ventilation can all cause shingles to warp and fall off, so getting them replaced will ensure your roof is entirely secure.Skylights and Roof Penetration
While skylight windows aren’t necessarily roofing, they sit on the roof and can allow water, animals and weather to seep in if they’re not properly sealed. Roof vents, vent pipes and other installations also need checking since their seals and flashing can become worn and damaged over time. If a seal is no longer working effectively, roof inspectors will catch the openings and advise you on the best corrections.Chimney
Like skylights and vents, damaged chimneys can cause severe leaks and roof issues when left unchecked. Inspections should examine the chimney and its flashing to ensure everything is up to code.Vegetation
Over time, moisture can cause vegetation like moss to grow and spread on the surface of your roof. While moss might look pretty, it can lift shingles and degrade roofing materials. Once shingles are lifted, water and rot can make their way into the roof and cause severe issues. Moss can weaken asphalt, wood, concrete, metal and clay with time, shortening the life span of your roof. Regular power washing can help prevent this.Roof Maintenance
Along with scheduling professional routine roof inspections, regular roof maintenance will help increase the life of your roof. You can perform basic roof maintenance by:- Removing moss
- Clearing out gutters
- Trimming branches and leaves
