What Is a Roof Inspection? What to Expect When You’re Inspecting
Has your area experienced extreme weather? Have high winds been barreling through your town? Is your roof on the older side? Are you curious about what’s going on up there? All of these are great reasons to get a roof inspection. Whether you’re worried about previous damage or want to prevent issues in the future, a roof inspection is never a bad idea. But what is a roof inspection, and what happens during one? We’ve got a sample roof inspection checklist and everything you need to know about what to expect when you’re inspecting (your roof).
#1: The Shingles
The shingles are the first line of defense, protecting your house from the elements. Therefore, checking the shingles is a critical part of a roof inspection. Your roofing professional will check to ensure correct shingle installation, that there aren’t issues from improper nailing, and that there aren’t any issues with rot or algae growth. They’ll also check for missing, cracked, damaged, or loose shingles.
#2: Water Damage
Checking for water damage is standard during an inspection. The inspector will check inside your home in the attic under the roof, looking for stains from leaks. If they find any, they’ll look for the source and determine where it’s coming from on the roof.
#3: Mold and Mildew
Damaged roofs that lead to leaks can also cause mold and mildew growth in your attic. They’ll check for that by inspecting under the roof and on your insulation, but they’ll also check for mold on top of your roof. Checking for mold growth around the shingles, the chimney, and the flashing is critical to preventing mold from moving into your home.
#4: The Vents
Your home has vents on the roof that allow moisture from the attic to get out, preventing excess humidity in your home and mold from forming. It also prevents heat from building up in the attic and allows for proper airflow. A roof inspector will check the vents for proper opening and installation. You also have metal vents affixed to your roof to vent gas appliances and the furnace. The inspection includes ensuring those are correctly attached and sealed.
#5: Roof Flashing
Flashing is the metal that connects the shingled areas to things like the chimney, roof valleys, walls, and any place there’s a seam or joint on the roof. It directs water flow away from vulnerable seams to prevent leaks and water damage inside your home. The inspector will check for rust, cracks, damage, and loosening.
#6: Your Gutters
The gutters move water that rolls down your roof away from the house and directs it down and away from the foundation. During a storm or heavy winds, or from wear and tear from age, the gutters can pull away from the side of the roof, leaving cracks and damage. The roofing technician will check to ensure they’re securely attached and that there are no issues. If they find water sitting in the gutter track, it means a bent or tilted gutter, so it can’t drain properly and needs repair or replacement. They’ll also ensure the gutters are clean and clear without blockage from leaves, branches, and debris.
If you’re worried about your roof or even curious about its condition, don’t wait for a costly leak or issue from damage. Instead, contact Premiere Roofing and schedule your roof inspection now.
