A roof inspection is a valuable process that can uncover concerns with the overall stability and condition of one of the most important parts of your home. A well-qualified professional takes the time to look at various components of the roof to spot early signs of problems, helping to minimize the risk of emergencies down the road. What can you expect from this process? Here’s what is likely to occur.
Roof Material, Age, and Condition
The roof inspection will specifically look at the roofing materials. This includes determining if there are any signs of wear and tear that are excessive, such as worn shingles or areas where the roofing shingles are no longer attached to the home. If you know the age of the roof, that is helpful information because it provides insight into the expected length of its function. If you don’t know this, the roofing contractor will try to estimate how much longer the roof is likely to last based on the condition.
Metal Roof Elements
Roofs are not just made from asphalt shingles. There are also various metal components that help to keep the roof dry and stable. That includes the flashing that is positioned around things like your chimney or other structures on the surface. There are typically a number of vents on the roof and valleys where two sections of the roof come together. The inspection will include examining these areas to ensure they are intact and in good overall condition. Missing, warped, damaged, or rusted areas may need repair or replacement.
Chimney
The chimney of the roof is an important entry point into the home. It’s often an area where leaks can occur, especially if the chimney is not protected with flashing. If there is damage to the chimney or it is no longer functioning the way it should, it may be necessary to complete repairs on it.
Gutters and Downspouts
The gutters are a big part of the functionality of your roofing system. If the gutters are not in place, the water from rain and melting snow will fall into the home, running down the siding and to the foundation. This can create erosion and moisture risks for many homes. During the roofing inspection, the contractor is looking for any areas of concern. This could include gutters that are missing from the area of the roof or areas where the gutters are no longer flush against the side of the roof.
The downspouts are also important. These help to move water away from the home once it reaches the gutters. If they are clogged, have holes in them, or are otherwise damaged, it’s going to be challenging for water to move away from the home as it should. During the roof inspection, the professional is also looking for signs of damage, aging, or inefficiencies that could limit the gutter system’s ability to keep water moving away from the foundation. It’s ideal to replace gutters and downspouts alongside the roof when possible, though it is not always necessary.
Siding Around the House
The siding can pinpoint any areas of concern related to the roof. For example, there could be signs of water damage, such as siding that’s pulled away from the structure. This could mean a problem with the gutters. Other times, there could be mold growth on the siding that can indicate the same.
Siding is not a component of your roofing system, but it can be a clue into what your home needs to remain safe and dry. Take the time to work closely with your roofing inspector to determine if there is a need to replace your siding along with your roofing.
Metal and Wood Framing Around Windows
A good roofing inspection will also involve an inspection of the wood framing that is located around the windows. Some homes have metal framing. In all cases, the goal is to better understand any damage to this area, such as signs of wood rotting, which could mean there’s water penetration in that area. In addition to this, there could be indications of missing framing or areas where the framing is no longer providing proper ventilation protection.
The framing around the windows is not necessarily a repair need associated with your roof, but it can shed light on what is happening around your home. Problems here could stem from the roofing itself.
Storm Damage
As your roofing inspection continues, you can expect the contractor to also look for any signs of damage from storms. Some of the damage the inspector is looking for may include the following:
- Missing shingles
- Pot marks from hail striking the area
- Damage to shingles from objects falling on the surface
- Holes in the roofing structure
- Shingles that are hanging off or no longer in place
Storm damage may be significant or minor. It could be located in just one area of the roof or the entire structure. Whether from hail, wind, or falling objects, storm damage is a big part of any roofing inspection because if it is not treated, it can lead to complications later.
Skylights and Sun Tubes
If you have a skylight or a sun tube on your roof, you probably enjoy that added benefit of natural light. However, these areas are prone to concerns related to leaks, especially around the edges. If you notice damage, like dampness inside the window, let the roof inspector know that as well.
Overall Structure and Integrity of the Roof
The goal of the roof inspection is to best understand if the roof is in good condition or if it may need repairs. The structural integrity of the roof is estimated based on all of these factors and any signs of concern, such as bowing in the middle or areas of leaks within the home.
The more information gathered about the roof condition, the more likely it is for the property to get the type and level of care it needs to minimize any further damage to the structure of your home. A good roof inspection should take time to ensure it is thorough.
