Complete Roof Inspection Checklist

Your home’s roof is the first line of defense against the elements such as storms and extreme weather.

Homeowners rely entirely on their roofs and forget about them until the first sign of a leak appears in the ceiling. To their surprise, they already had some severe damage, such as mold growth, unwanted structural issues, or damaged insulation. Regular roof inspections are necessary to know its condition. Like your plumbing system, you need to schedule regular roof maintenance and inspection to prevent large-scale repairs and property damage.

You can do a DIY roof inspection, and if you are unable to do so, you can hire expert roofing inspectors in your area if you are unable to find the right roof inspector, search online. You will find a list of roofing inspectors in your area. Hire the most reliable one and get your roof inspected instantly. Here is a complete guide on the roof inspection. Be it a DIY roof inspection, or you are hiring an expert, make the most out of this information.

What Are Roofers Looking for During A Roof Inspection?

What a roof inspection includes depends on the type of roofing material. Whether you have planned a DIY inspection or hired one of the best roof inspectors from the list of roofing inspectors, you will need to focus on the following areas during the inspection.

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If you have a shingle roof, here are the issues that a roofing inspector will look for:

• Signs of Water Damage:

The water damage can be caused due to many reasons, including improperly installed or damaged flashings, improper water drainage due to clogged gutters, and storms that blow shingles off, leaving room for the water to seep in.

• Mold Growth:

During the interior inspection of the roof, it is essential to look for mold growth. Mold growth is a sign of excessive water damage. It generally grows around the chimneys and on the attic insulation. Make sure to pay special attention to these areas during inspection.

• Shingles Deterioration:

The hot air in the attic can cause the shingles to buckle, warp, or curl. The misshapen shingles will let the water in and create poor ventilation. These damaged shingles must be replaced before it’s too late if one-third If the shingles are curved, it’s time to re-shingle the entire roof.

• Clogged Gutters:

The roofing inspectors make sure you check the gutters if they are clogged. The gutters can contain an excessive amount of loose shingle granules, which can cause a blockage. These granules provide the shingles added weight and provide protection again UV rays.

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Metal roofs also need proper care and maintenance. While inspection, leak identification, and their cause are the top priority. Here are what roofing inspectors look for during the metal roof’s inspection:

• Loose Seams:

Depending on the weather, metal roofs expand and contract. It results in loosening screws and seams separating. The roofing inspectors make sure to inspect this because the roof’s underlying structure might be damaged if it is not treated in the right way.

• Damaged Flashing:

Flashings that have begun to pull apart will create a gap and allow the water to seep underneath the metal roof. Besides, it can lead to rust and corrosion, and damage to the underside of the panels.

• Rust:

Rust can eat away at the metal roof, creating larger holes allowing the water to leak, and even causing the roofing panels to fall apart.

What Is the Difference Between Interior and Exterior Inspection?

Most of the roofs have an attic that needs proper inspection. Moreover, interior roof inspection includes inspecting the attic for adequate insulation, ventilation, moisture, and mold. You can inspect it yourself or hire one of the best inspectors among the list of roofing inspectors in your area. If you cannot find a trusted inspector, visit online Listings to see renowned Roofing Inspectors in Reston VA, or near your area.

• Cracks on roof sheathing
• Inspection of attic
• The outside light company through
• Leaks around vents, chimneys, and other holes in the outside
• Signs of mold and wet insulation

It includes climbing up on the roof and checking the leaks and proper flashing when it comes to exterior inspection. Moreover, it consists of shingles and chimney inspection. The inspectors make sure that everything is in perfect condition. Furthermore, they provide you with a report of your roofing inspection. This report tells whether or not you need any repair or replacement. Here are the things included in the exterior inspection:

• Curled, split, or blistered shingles
• Missing or loose shingles
• Exposed and loose screws
• Broken or loose shingles at the ridge
• Rusty or corroded metal flashing
• Missing or damaged flashing

What Are the Early Signs of The Roof Leak?

The problems with roofs can occur at any time of the year. You need to look for the early signs, which include:

• Peeling paint on the underside of the roof
• Dark areas on the ceiling
• Damp spots alongside fireplaces
• Water stains on pipes

If you get to experience any of these symptoms, make sure to get a roofing inspection by hiring a professional.

How Often Do You Need to Get Roof Inspection?

Getting regular roof inspections is the best way to catch up on any issue. For example, if you plan to sell your home, getting a roof inspection before putting it up for sale is the best you can do. It will help you increase the selling price and help you get the best deals. Moreover, regular inspection can ensure that your roof stays in the best condition for a longer time.

It is better to get the roof inspected twice a year. When winter ends, and summer ends, you should get in touch with the roof inspector and inspect it. Besides, it would be better to get it inspected after any significant weather event, especially after storms with intense hail and high winds. The debris accumulated in the gutters, causing the water to seep through the roof and severe damage to the ceiling.