When it comes to ensuring the longevity and functionality of your home, the role of a professional roof inspector cannot be overstated. These inspectors are experts in their field and will scrutinize every inch of your roof to identify potential issues before they become major problems. In this blog post, we'll peel back the curtain to reveal the comprehensive tasks that a professional roof inspector performs, shedding light on the valuable work they do to safeguard your home.
What is a roof inspection
Your roof is a mechanical system. It may seem to be a passive feature of your house. But, just like your home’s heating and air, plumbing and electrical systems, your roof performs functions that require proper maintenance and periodic inspections to ensure reliable service.
A roof inspection is a thorough examination of all roofing components on, or in, your home. The inspection is performed to determine the current performance of your roof and what, if anything, needs to be done to correct any problems.
Roof inspections are also performed to certify a roof. That is, to determine the quality and expected lifespan of a particular roof. These inspections are common when buying or selling a house
What’s Included in a Roof Inspection?
A roof inspector’s checklist will examine every component of a roof, including its structural support, the stability of the roofing material, and if there are any signs of damage throughout the ceiling and walls.
Do Roofing Companies Do Roof Inspections?
Reputable roofing companies typically perform inexpensive or free roof inspections. However, this service is most often associated with receiving a quote for repair or replacement. Roofing company inspections are usually relied upon for assessing storm damage, or if you’re planning on replacing your roof for any reason. Hiring an independent roof inspector may be more appropriate for periodic inspections or appraisals.
What Does a Roof Inspector Look for?
A roof inspector’s job is to assess the condition of every roof component. If there are problems with any component, the inspector will also determine the cause of the issue. Following are the major areas of concern and what they look for during an inspection.
Interior Inspection
The interior portion of the inspection will tackle any signs of damage to the roof that aren’t visible from the outside. Inspectors will check ceilings, attics, and even walls throughout the inside of the home. The signs will typically include the following:
Water stains
Wood rot
Mold
Holes in the walls or ceilings
Beams of light coming into the attic from the ceiling
Pests in the attic
Soffits and Fascia and Drip Edges
From the ground, the inspector will look at the condition of the soffit material covering the roof overhang. Once on the ladder, they can get a closer look to see if any water has made its way behind the fascias and drip edges.
Gutters and Downspouts
The inspector should then look for confirmation that the gutters are free of standing water and that the downspouts are firmly attached and functioning as they should.
Roofing Material
The condition of the roofing material is best determined by close examination from on the roof itself. Trying to gauge its condition from the ground will return a far less accurate assessment.
Roof Penetrations
Vent pipes, roof vents, media installations or other items create holes in your roof. These holes are covered by various boots, seals, sealants or flashing to keep water out. All of these penetration seals should be inspected for condition and effectiveness. The conditions of the penetrating items themselves are also inspected.
Flashing
Flashing is strips of metal, plastic or other material that’s used to divert water away from the joint created where a wall extends through the roof. Building codes are strict in regards to flashing installation. The inspector will make sure your flashing is up to code and make recommendations if it’s not.
Window and Chimney Condition
Skylight windows and chimney onditions should be a part of a thorough roof inspection. Although they’re not necessarily roofing components, having their condition determined before a roof replacement could save money by avoiding extra roofing work later.
Attic
If your home allows access to the attic, inspecting the roof from below can prove beneficial. Stains or other water damage can be easily spotted on bare wood and will tell you exactly where a roof problem has occurred.
Documentation and Report Generation
Thorough documentation is a hallmark of a professional roof inspection. The inspector takes photographs, notes, and creates a comprehensive report detailing their findings. This documentation serves as a roadmap for addressing issues effectively.
Why Do You Need a Roof Inspection?
You can hire a roofing inspector to conduct a roof inspection for many reasons. For instance, you may have noticed a leak, and you want to ensure it isn’t coming from the roof. Or your area may have recently experienced high winds, and you want to check the roof for any debris or damage.
Here’s a quick rundown of why you might need a roof inspection:
Annual maintenance inspection
Noticed leaks coming from the ceiling
Experienced a recent storm that included high winds, debris, and heavy rain or snow
Preparing your home for hurricane or snow season
Looking to sell or refinance your home
If you’ve recently purchased a home without a home inspection
Your insurance company has requested a roof inspection
A professional roof inspector is a guardian of your home's first line of defense. Through their expertise, meticulous assessments, and dedication to detail, these professionals ensure that your roof remains sturdy and resilient against the elements. Regular inspections conducted by experienced roof inspectors are an investment in the long-term health of your home, providing peace of mind and protection for years to come.
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