Your roof plays an important role in keeping your home and family safe, yet many of us don’t give it a second thought until there is a noticeable problem. While leaks or storm damage are most likely to capture a homeowner’s attention, minor issues can slowly develop over the course of the year. When things like cracked shingles or clogged gutters are left unattended, they can ultimately turn into larger problems which can result in expensive roof repairs or even a full roof replacement.
Much like people need an annual check-up or physical to stay healthy, roofs need an annual check-up so problems can be caught as early as possible. An annual roofing inspection from a certified, reputable roofing contractor is the best way to ensure your roof’s lifespan and save you from expensive repairs. In fact, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association, regular maintenance is the most important factor when it comes to increasing your roof’s lifespan.
What Does A Professional Roofing Inspection Look For?
Roofing inspections will ultimately uncover obvious issues such as leaks and storm damage, but they actually go even further. Below are the main things your roofing contractor will examine as part of a roof inspection or roof certification:
Structural Issues
Ensuring your roof is of sound structural integrity is important for your safety, so this will be a top priority during a roofing inspection. As part of the process, your contractor will look for visible signs of sagging or uneven roofing planes. Inspectors might also take a look at your roof’s ventilation system to ensure adequate airflow.
Condition Of Roofing Materials
The condition of your roofing materials is an important part of any roofing inspection. Your contractor will look for signs of damage caused by weather, debris, or just simply old age. If you have asphalt shingles, your inspector will look for cracks, dents, and bends as well as any areas where shingles are missing. If your home has a metal roof, it will be checked for signs of denting or corrosion and loose seams.
Gutters And Downspouts
Your roof’s drainage system will also be evaluated as part of a typical inspection. Your contractor will make sure water is effectively flowing off of your roof and away from your foundation. Your gutters and downspouts will also be checked to ensure they’re unclogged and free of any obstruction.
Flashing And Caulking
Flashing and caulking help connect sections of your roof with other surfaces such as chimneys and gutters, so it’s important for it to be secure. Otherwise, serious damage can occur. Your contractor should do a thorough examination of all flashing and caulking to ensure everything is in good shape.
Moss, Algae, Or Mold Growth
Unwanted plant growth can develop on older roofs or in instances when there isn’t adequate draining. Moss, algae, and mold are also more likely to grow in areas with heavy humidity. If left unattended, these plants can do significant damage overtime. If mold gets inside your attic, it can also pose a potential health risk too. Your roofing contractor will closely examine your materials for signs of unwanted plant growth.
Attic And Interior
As part of a roofing inspection, your contractor may want to see the inside of your home as well. If your roof is leaking, there could be signs in the attic or on the interior walls or ceilings. Your roofer may also want to inspect the attic for thermal leaks, which are tiny holes that are too small to allow water to enter. Finally, they will also check for signs of mold or rot in the attic.
Other Fixtures
Inspections also cover an examination of other roofing fixtures. Chimneys and skylights should be checked for any cracks or damage. Your contractor should also make sure satellite dishes or roof AC units are securely attached. These items can easily be knocked lose during a storm, which can result in severe damage.
Should I Inspect My Own Roof?
We don’t recommend climbing onto your own roof under any circumstances. Actual roof inspections should be left to trained professionals. However, following a severe weather event, it’s always a good idea to safely inspect your roof from the ground. A quick-self inspection is fairly easy. Walk around your yard (about 20-30 feet from your home) and look for visible signs of damage such as missing shingles or dents. Also check your attic and interior walls for leaks. If you notice anything, it’s probably good to call your roofing contractor right away.
When Should I Schedule A Roofing Inspection?
In the absence of obvious storm damage, it’s still a good idea to have your roof inspected on an annual basis. In the Central Florida area, fall is usually the best time to have your roof inspected. This will give you a chance to assess any damage and make necessary repairs after hurricane season has concluded and before winter sets in. However, if you believe your roof is in good shape, it’s perfectly fine to wait until spring.
Why Roof Inspections Are Important When Buying Or Selling A Home
If you’re getting ready to buy or sell a home, a roofing inspection is always a good idea for both the buyer and seller. A roofing inspection or certification will estimate the remaining lifespan of a roof, which can give potential buyers more confidence in the condition of the home. Home inspections are often not enough to determine the condition of a home. While a home inspector is required to look for active leaking, they are not required to actually go onto the roof. As a result, a home inspector can’t always accurately predict the estimated lifespan of a roof.
Homeowners can easily evaluate the condition of their home’s interior, but keeping tabs on your roof’s condition isn’t as apparent. Roofing issues can also be difficult to uncover, especially without training or experience. An annual inspection and regular maintenance are the best way to prevent damage from becoming worse.
If you’re concerned about your roof and need a reputable contractor in the Oviedo FL area, call Native Building Services & Roofing today. We’ve been providing roofing inspections in the Central Florida area for over 30 years.
