A roof inspection should be considered a valuable preventative maintenance tool for your roof.

Reasons To Get an Inspection

There are three reasons to schedule a roof inspection — you are buying a home, there has been a recent major storm, or you suspect damage due to age. When it comes to the first reason, you need a full inspection if the roof on the home you are buying is anything but newly installed. Your regular home inspector may also recommend a more detailed roof inspection if they spot anything concerning.

Storm and age damage can sometimes be repaired if caught early. Wind and hail storms are the types most likely to cause roofing damage, so it is a good idea to schedule an inspection following the storm, or at least once a year if you live in an area that experiences several major storms annually. You should also schedule an inspection if your roof is more than a decade old or if you suspect problems. For example, if you have noticed curling shingles or suspect water leaks in the attic.

What To Expect From Your Roofer

Your roofer should inspect the roof from both the top surface and from the underside, usually by accessing your attic or ceiling crawlspace. The exterior inspection is to look for direct damage. These can include curling shingles, asphalt granule loss, punctures and water damage, and damaged flashing and vent boots. Your roofer will also check the eaves of the roof, including the fascia and soffits, for any problems.

The attic check is mainly to look for water damage. They will be looking for symptoms of roof leaks like wet insulation or mold and mildew growth. They may also check to see if there is light coming through the roof anywhere. Your roof's attic ventilation system will also be inspected thoroughly at this time.

How To Use the Information

It's up to you how to use the information your roof inspector provides, although they will advise you. Minor issues, such as a few damaged shingles or missing flashing, can often be fixed with a repair or patch. This can add several years to the life of the roof. Ventilation problems can also be repaired without the need for a full roof replacement as long as the problem hasn't caused major moisture damage.

More severe damage, such as old, worn-out shingles or hail damage, often means that the time has come to replace the roof.

Contact a roofer for a roof inspection if you suspect any issues with your roof.