The roof keeps your home structurally sound and offers protection from weather extremes. Keeping it in good shape can help keep your indoor spaces comfortable and prevent increased energy costs. While a roof will not last forever, there are a few simple ways to extend its life. Some of these are routine inspections and maintenance by a dependable roofing contractor.
Continue reading to discover what usually happens when your roofer visits for an inspection.
What Is the Importance of Roof Inspections?
Unveil Hidden Damage
Routine roof inspections can reveal hidden defects that could later lead to extensive damage. Some roofing issues do not have early warning signs. You will not even know they exist until leaks, mold and other problems have already occurred. During a roof inspection, your contractor will look for imperfections in the roofing material and if there are missing components that might have moved during storms.
Have an Easier Insurance Claims Process
After a severe storm, you must schedule a professional inspection. Doing so will let you know if filing a claim is necessary. Be careful of the contractors you hire after a weather event to avoid being deceived. As much as possible, work with a reputable local roofing contractor.
If your roof has storm damage, your contractor can write a detailed report to support your insurance claim. Your insurer will then work with your roofer to address roofing issues from the storm.
Save More Money
Catching and addressing issues while they are small can help you save money in the long run. Minor repairs do not cost as much as fixing a large part of your roof. You won’t have to worry about roofing replacement soon, and you can protect the rest of your home against water damage. Knowing when you need a new roof will help you prepare for its costs.
Ensure Your Safety
Roofing jobs are always best handled by skilled professionals. They know how to access and walk on your roof safely. Professionals are equipped with proper safety gear and appropriate tools to perform repairs efficiently. Experienced contractors know what a damaged roof looks like and how to safely walk on a roof.
Have Peace of Mind
Another thing that routine inspections can give you is peace of mind. You will rest easy knowing that your roof is providing your home and family adequate protection. Inspections will also give you an idea about when a roofing replacement will be necessary.
What to Expect From Your Roofer
Check the Roof Structure
Your contractor will check if the planes of your roof are even and look for indications of sagging. Roofers will inspect the soffit, fascia and gutters. During this time, expect them to check if your chimney has cracks, deteriorating grout or compromised caps.
Your roofer might also check if your roof and attic have sufficient ventilation. Poor airflow can result in a buildup of moisture and heat in your attic. Excessive heat and humidity can lead to a string of issues, including deck deterioration, early shingle failure, mold growth and poor indoor comfort. Attic heat also increases the likelihood of ice dams in winter.
Assess Shingles and Other Roofing Components
During this stage of the inspection process, your contractor will see if there are any signs of damage on the shingles. Curling, loose or missing shingles can cause water to travel inside your home. Your roofer will also look for problems with the seals around vent pipes and rubber boots.
If your roof has bald spots, it could be due to shingle granule loss. Without these protective sediments, shingles will be left vulnerable to the harmful effects of the sun. Moreover, this issue could be a sign that your roof is reaching the end of its life.
Check for Workmanship Issues
Your roof is only as good as how it was installed. Poor workmanship can result in early roofing failure. During an inspection, your contractor will look for installation errors that can make your roof more prone to leaks and damage. Some of these mistakes include improper flashing around vents, chimneys, skylights and other protrusions.
Look for Signs of Leaks Inside Your Home
Signs of roof damage could be present inside your home. That is why your roofer will check your attic, ceilings and walls for indications of leaks. Your roof could be leaking if there are water stains on surfaces, mold or rot.
A Detailed Analysis of Your Roof
After the roof inspection, expect your contractor to provide you with a detailed report regarding the state of your roof. Do not wait long to schedule roof repair services if your roof needs them. The longer you put them off, the worse and costlier the problems may become. You want to address these issues before the next weather event. A roof that is in good condition will give your property better protection against harsh elements.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
Often, homeowners only contact professionals when there is already apparent damage on their roof. It is after a storm that a lot of people recognize roofing issues. You do not have to wait for problems to occur before having an inspection. In fact, having your roof checked regularly goes a long way in preventing problems.
You want to get a professional inspection before the end of fall and after any extreme weather event. Low temperatures can have a negative impact on the installation of your new roof and even on repairs. Shingles might not adhere to the roof properly when the temperatures are too low. Roof repairs during winter could be especially tricky for your contractor. It’s difficult to work on icy surfaces, and sometimes you need to wait until spring for the repairs.
If you suspect there is something wrong with your roof, contact [company_name] immediately. We only offer superior roofing replacement and roof repair services. You can count on us for your residential and commercial roofing needs. Call us at (941) 217-2411 or fill out our online form to get a free estimate.
