What to Expect From a Roof Inspection

The roof is one of the most important parts of any home, so it’s vital to keep it in good shape. But if problems like sagging, leaks and missing or broken shingles aren’t caught early, they can cause serious structural damage to the house. A regular inspection by a qualified roofing specialist can help prevent these problems from occurring, and save homeowners money in the long run.

During a roof inspection, an inspector will take a close look at the condition of your roof from both on the ground and from the top of the ladder. This ensures that the inspector is safe from falling debris and can spot issues that are otherwise difficult to see from ground level. A good inspector will also check the gutters and downspouts for clogs and confirm that they are draining properly.

An inspector will also examine the roof structure, checking for signs of sagging and uneven roof planes as well as looking closely at the fascias, soffits and chimneys to check for deterioration or water damage. In addition, the inspector will check for cracked or failing seals around all roof penetrations (plumbing vents, attic fans and pipes) as well as look for lifted shingle overlaps, which are a precursor to leaking.

Next, the inspector will use a thermal imaging device to locate any hot spots on the roof. These will appear as bright white against a dark background on the image and can be a sign of a roof leak or other problem. Once the hotspots are located, the inspector will note their locations on a map.

Once the inspector has finished with the exterior portion of the inspection, they will move inside to inspect the attic and/or crawl space for signs of leaks, pest infestations and attic ventilation problems. This is especially important if the roof has recently been repaired, as bad workmanship can hide leaks and other problems for a while.

Lastly, the inspector will check the drip edge of the roof to make sure that it is intact and adequately diverting water away from the sides of the house. This is a very important detail, and building codes require it. Inspecting the condition of a roof is a complex task, and a qualified roof inspector should be able to provide you with a thorough and detailed report that clearly outlines the status of your roof. It’s worth having this information on hand not only for home insurance purposes, but also if you ever plan to sell your home. Having a clean, safe and well-maintained roof can greatly increase the value of your home.