Routine roof inspection is critical to keeping a roof in top-notch shape as it helps homeowners identify and repair roof problems before they escalate. Experts recommend having a roof inspected once or twice a year in normal circumstances. While homeowners can conduct the inspection themselves, enlisting companies offering residential roofing services is critical to identifying problems that an untrained eye may not see. Here are a few elements of a thorough roof inspection.
Looking for Common Roof Problems
A home roof inspection is an examination of the structural integrity of a roof to determine its useful life and when it needs to be replaced. The professional inspects the interior and the exterior of the roof checking common roof problems like the following.
- Leaks: Roof leaks develop as a result of water damage. They form when rain wears down the roof material or if water does not drain correctly due to clogged gutters. Homes located in areas that experience strong winds are particularly prone to roof leaks because the shingles are blown away, leaving water to seep into the ceiling. The leaks may go unnoticed for some time, hence the need to enlist professionals providing residential roofing services to perform a thorough roof inspection.
- Damaged Flashing: Flashing protects the joints and seams of a roof from excessive water. The parts deteriorate over time due to contraction and expansion of the material used to make them creating gaps that allow water to seep through the metal roof. Damaged flashing can also cause the underside of the panels to corrode
- Mold Growth: Excessive water damage leads to mold growth around the chimney and the attic. The professionals pay attention to these areas during an interior roof inspection.
- Poor ventilation: When a roof is poorly ventilated, it traps heat and moisture, which can damage the internal parts of a roof. As a result, the rafters rot, insulation is less effective, and shingles buckle.
Structural Inspection
After identifying common roof problems, the roofing contractor then examines the overall structure of the roof to identify any sagging or deterioration of roofing materials. The inspection also enables the professional to identify recent repairs performed on the roof. At this stage, they are within their rights to ask questions about the roofing repair, especially if there are signs of error. Relatively new roofs can hold up to harsh weather elements for some time, but older ones have lost vitality and are more prone to develop cracks, leaks, and unevenness. During the inspection, the residential roofing services professional also examines the condition of the roofing material, which is critical in assessing its economic life. Common roofing materials include:
- Metal: It lasts longer and doesn’t need as much maintenance
- Asphalt shingles: Many homeowners install asphalt shingle roofing as they perform well during cold climates and areas that experience heavy storms. However, if used in hot climates, their economic life reduces by 40%
- Wood shingles: While they provide a natural look, wood shingles need regular maintenance as they are prone to rot and cracks
Reporting and Scheduling Repairs
The contractor provides a comprehensive report showing the structural status of the roof after the inspection. It explains roofing problems identified and the appropriate course of action to keep your roof in good shape. If the roof does not need repairs, the roofing company estimates the roof’s remaining useful life and provides a roof inspection certification.
If the roof needs repair, you may allow the technician to perform minor repairs. However, if the roofing repairs are extensive it would help if you scheduled a different day to perform them. The residential roofing services professional should also advise the homeowner to file for a warranty claim if it’s still valid. While manufacturers provide long warranty periods, there’s a chance that the company goes out of business during the stipulated period. As such, it’s best to hire professionals to perform the repairs.
