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Things You Need to Learn About Home Roof Inspection

By Applied Roofing Services

Apr 16, 2018

Roof Maintenance

Roof Inspection

Your roof is an investment in your home. It protects your home from rain, wind, snow, and direct sunlight. When it comes to insurance claims, your roof can account for almost one-third of them. Most roofs are designed to last between 10 and 20 years, sometimes longer. For a roof to make it that long without extensive repairs, you need to understand the importance of a yearly roof inspection.

Home Roof Inspections

Home roof inspection catches small issues before they turn into major disasters and can save you thousands of dollars. Read on to know more about home roof inspections.

  • Annual Inspections Can Save You Money

    An annual roof inspection can identify potential problems that you may not notice from the ground. A reputable roofing contractor will be able to notice damage caused by limbs or other debris that may land on your roof during a storm. They can also identify areas of wear and tear that are starting to affect the overall quality and integrity of the roof.

  • Always Hire A Licensed Roofing Professional

    When you want the job done right, always hire a licensed roofing professional. This is especially true when it comes to a roof inspection. A roofing professional can identify minor damages in all types of roofing materials, including asphalt and tile. They can identify when a job wasn't completed correctly and whether poor quality materials were used for repairs.

  • If You Notice Damage, Have Your Roof Inspected Immediately

    If there has been severe weather and you notice that there are large limbs or pieces of debris on your roof, call a licensed roof professional immediately to have your roof inspected for damages. Sharp sticks and branches can puncture shingles or cause them to lift as they become wedged underneath.

Here are some frequently asked home roof inspections questions for you:

What Are the Indications that You May Need a Roof Inspection?

If your roof is over 20 years old and it hasn’t been inspected recently, you should hire a professional. Otherwise, if you see any of these signs, understand that it’s time for a roof inspection:

  • You observe curled, cracked or missing shingles
  • You see granules in your gutters
  • You can view outside light in your attic
  • You notice sagging, either from your home’s interior or when you look at the rafters
  • You observe leaks

What Is the Difference Between Exterior and Interior Inspections?

When it comes to listing the differences between exterior and interior roof inspections, here are the items placed under the respective categories.

Interior Roof Inspection - This involves going inside the attic to check for:

  • Proper insulation
  • Ventilation
  • Moisture and mold

Exterior Inspection - This involves getting on the roof to examine the wear and tear and informing the homeowner about the roof’s condition, including:

  • Leak
  • Ice dams
  • State of roof shingle
  • Proper flashing (valleys, side walls, dormers, eaves, and rakes)
  • Chimney work

Homeowner Inspections vs. Professional Inspections

Many visible roof defects, including missing or flapping shingles, can be spotted by most homeowners even without climbing on the roof. You may consider a visual inspection from the ground and a quick review for leaks in your attic to manage roofs that are:

  • Comparatively new (less than five years)
  • Display no signs of interior leaks
  • Hasn’t experienced major weather conditions since the last time it was inspected

However, certain types of damage are not so evident to the untrained eye. This is the reason why you should seek a professional opinion. A full roof inspection should be done by an experienced roofing professional.

Why Do You Require Professional Roof Inspections?

Professional roof inspections are a stress-free, safe, and cost-effective solution, both in the long-term and short-term. Here are the most significant advantages of having professional roof inspections:

  • Provide a stress-free, reliable, and cost-effective solution
  • Detect water damage
  • Protection from hidden roof damage
  • Help in getting your insurance claim
  • Help extend your roof’s lifespan

When Should Your Roof Be Inspected?

Here are the four main occasions when you should have your roof inspected:

  • Following a new roof installation to ensure that the job has been done according to your region's building code.

  • After a major storm to confirm if there have been any roof damage and allow you to claim your insurance, if appropriate, within the deadline.

  • When you are gearing up to sell your home or looking to purchase a new property.

  • As part of regular preventive home maintenance.

What Do the Inspectors Look at?

Roof inspections usually look for the following issues with a roof:

  • Missing, broken, or torn shingles
  • Worn away shingle granules
  • Cracked or missing caulk
  • Rusted or missing flashing
  • Rotted or torn rubber boots near pipes
  • Wood rot or sagging areas
  • Chimney cracks or missing caps
  • Gutters that aren’t firmly attached

Never leave the condition of your roof to chance. If you think you may have damage or it's been longer than a year since your last inspection, call and schedule a visit from a roofing contractor today. Catching small issues before they turn into major disasters can save you thousands of dollars.

Also Read: 5 Great Benefits of Regular Commercial Roof Inspection
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