What is Involved in a Roof Inspection?

A roof inspection will involve engaging a certified roof contractor to check on the condition of your roof. Regular roof inspections allow you to keep any occurrence in check and fix roofing issues on time.

So, are there leaks on your roof, stains on your ceiling, or dysfunctional gutters? These are some indications that you urgently require a roof inspection done.

Here you will learn when to request a roof inspection and what is involved in a roof inspection:

When Do You Need to Undertake a Roof Inspection?

Roof inspections should be done at least once a year to check any threats before they become a menace.

However, there are some instances where you may be required to do a roof inspection:

Purchasing A New Home

When purchasing a new home, there must be a home inspection process. It involves checking that all the systems of the house are in good condition.

A home inspector may inspect your roof but is not an expert in the field – they can recommend you engage a professional roofer to help with the inspections.

After Major Storm

Major storms can cause havoc to your roof. A tree or a section of tree might fall over the roof, causing some damage.

In the occurrence of heavy storms with or without visible damages, contact your roofing company for roof inspections. The inspection will reveal any need for repairs. 

Presence of Roof Leaks or Ceiling Stains

Roof leaks are sometimes not dramatic; you don’t expect downpours in your home to figure out a leak in your roof.

However, the look on your ceiling tells it all. When your roof leaks, you will notice dark stains spreading across the ceiling

In this case, call your roofing contractor to undertake a roof inspection and identify the cause of the leak.

Renewing Your Home Insurance or Changing Company

If you want to change your insurance or renew your home insurance, your insurer will ask for a current roof inspection report. The current state of your home determines its value

The roof is an integral part of a home and expensive to replace. Therefore, your insurance provider will require a roof inspection to determine the value of your premium.

What is Involved in a Roof Inspection?

Only a certified roofing contractor should undertake a roof inspection. When you choose to do the roof inspection, you will miss some signs implying an impending danger. A roof specialist has the experience to uncover all issues posing a threat to your roof.

When a roofing contractor is inspecting your roof, they will check the following:

Check on Any Signs of Leaks

The roofer will check on your ceiling for any stains resulting from water intrusions. If your ceiling is clean, they will walk around the house to check if the walls look damp or the paints are peeling off.

Any of these signs suggest an existing leak on your roof.

Check the Condition of Roof Shingles

A roof inspector will check on missing, loose, curled, or cracked shingles. If the shingles are not in perfect condition, it means a disaster is waiting.

Also, poor installation of shingles might be the cause of your roof problems. Some nails might be driven sideways, causing bumps.

If any of these problems are evident, the roof inspector recommends repair to fix the shingles correctly.

Condition of Your Roof Flashing

The roofing contractor should also check on the integrity of the roof flashing. The roof flashing should remain intact and should not allow the seeping of water into the house.

A rusty or loose flashing indicates the need for repairs or replacement.

The Condition of the Attic

A properly ventilated attic allows the attic to breathe, thus prolonging the life of your roof. On the other hand, a poorly ventilated attic traps cold and hot air, shortening the life of your roof.

Therefore, the roof inspector must check if your attic is adequately ventilated. 

Condition of the Roof Deck

The roof decking is the sheathing board placed below the shingles. So, determining its integrity will involve the roofer walking over your roof to identify if the top is spongy on their feet.

The ‘walking inspection’ is not always accurate; the roofer might miss some decking issues.

Thus, it may require peeling off shingles to get hold of the problem. At this point, you will have to wait until you schedule a roof replacement.

Your Chimney Condition

The chimney is a roof penetration and thus requires inspections to check for any visible leaks. The assessment concentrates on the flashing, the condition of the chimney cap, and the mortal.

The roofer checks if anything is growing out of the mortal. Also, dampness in the mortal means there is water seeping through the chimney. 

The Gutter System

The gutter system is an integral part of your roof. A functioning guttering system complements the roof and prevents water damages to your home exteriors. The primary purpose of the guttering system is to redirect rainwater over to the downspouts. 

Therefore, the roofer should check on any cracks or open seams on the gutters when undertaking roof inspections. They can use a sealant to fix open seams and cracks.

They should also check if there are debris build-ups that restrict the smooth flow of the rainwater. Debris build-up is eliminated through a thorough gutter cleaning. Installing a gutter guard system can also help keep debris out of your gutters. 

Also, the roofer checks if there is standing water in the gutter system resulting from tilted gutters.

Final Word

A roof inspection will determine the lifespan of your roof. Importantly, regular roof inspection points out an impending threat before it turns into a nuisance. 

Ensure you maintain your roof adequately. A roof inspection will determine the value of your home in the eyes of a buyer or your insurance provider.

Also, it would be best if you get a written roof inspection report, even when your roof is in perfect condition.