As we all know, the roof is an integral part of any home. It protects everything and everyone inside. To help ensure your roof is performing well, roofing contractors offer paid and free inspection services that you should take advantage of. There are different components of a roof, so hiring a good roof inspector who examines everything and knows what they’re looking for is key.
At Excel Renovation, we share our knowledge of home and building improvements to help you make informed decisions. In this article, we’ve provided a step-by-step process of roof inspection, including a complete roof inspection checklist, and signs of roof damage you should look out for.
Step 1: Check For Signs Of Damage From The Ground
Working on a pitched roof is not safe for the typical homeowner. Most building codes require a license, safety gear, and a proper outfit when climbing a roof to do maintenance. The good news is that you can notice a few signs of roof damage without having to ascend a ladder.
- Your roof leaks in heavy rain: While this seems like a common problem, it’s not normal for a sturdy roof to leak during heavy rain, or when the snow melts. If your roof leaks, you must check it for damage and get it repaired.
- Soffit and fascia damage: Look for peeling paint, pest infestation, cracks, and dark stains on your soffit and fascia boards.
- Shingle and flashing damage: Do you see lots of shingle granules on the ground? Are there any broken or missing shingles? Also, see if the valley flashing has cuts or dents.
- Check your gutter system: If you notice green or black stains on the siding or ground, it means your gutters and downspouts are clogged or leaking. Check if the gutters appear to be sagging from the roofline. Also look for cracks, rust, or water stains on downspouts and gutters.
Even though roof damage can be easily spotted from the ground there are a lot of areas left to inspect. The truth is, it’s the hidden damage that leads to frequent issues and unexpected roof failures. If you have the opportunity to get a free roof inspection, why not take it? It’s the easiest and most effective way to save time, effort, and money. In the next step, search for, and hire a reliable roofing contractor that offers free roof inspection for homes.
Step 2: Get A Free Roof Inspection
A reliable roof inspector will provide an accurate assessment and estimate of costs to repair or replace your roof. It will help you avoid future issues, obtain insurance claims, and retain manufacturer warranties. Search the internet and ask your neighbors if they know someone available. Make sure you’re contacting a local roofing contractor with the highest ratings and positive reviews. Always ask if they provide roof inspection services and whether it’s free or paid.
What Do Professional Roof Inspections Assess?
- Moisture and structural damage to your roof.
- Damage to adjacent parts of the house.
- Wear and tear caused over time.
- Faults in roof installation and repairs.
What Will You Learn?
- The exact condition of your roof and how long it will last.
- Parts that need to be repaired and how much it will cost.
- Preventive maintenance tips to avoid roof damage.
But how do the roofers do it? Apart from the right tools, gear, and skills, they maintain a roof inspection checklist. Make sure you hire the right roofing contractor with years of experience and a checklist that includes everything we’ve mentioned below:
Step 3: Look At The Roof Inspection Checklist
During a complete roof inspection, inspectors check every part of your roof and other areas that may be affected. The process includes assessing every corner of the roof, attic, siding, and ground. Here’s what they check:
Shingles, Tiles, Or Metal Panels
- Shingle curling, blistering, cracking, and granule loss.
- Uneven placement of shingles and tiles.
- Dents, cuts, blisters, and peeling paint on metal panels.
- Missing clay or slate tiles.
- Discoloration, mold, algae, and rust.
Flashing, Drip Edge, And Valleys
- Warping or missing flashing.
- Improper flashing and nailing.
- A rusty or loose drip edge.
- Cuts and cracks in the valley flashing.
- Blocks and pest infestation in the roof valleys.
Vents, Skylights, And Chimney
- Wrong placement of vents and skylights.
- Debris in vent pipes and fans.
- Scratches, cracks, and moisture built up on the skylight glazing.
- Tiny cracks in the chimney brick.
- Gaps and debris around the skylight frame.
- Damaged flashing around the chimney, vent pipes, and skylights.
Gutters And Downspouts
- Clogs by debris and leaves.
- Beehives, bird nests, and insects.
- Rust and peeling paint.
- Water test to check leaks.
Soffit And Fascia
- Compromised wiring inside the soffit.
- Mold, rot, algae, and pest infestation.
- Gaps between the roofline and boards.
- Loose nails and screws.
- Chipping paint.
Attic Inspection
- Algae, pest infestation, and rodents in the attic.
- Water stains and mold on the walls and floor.
- Structural damage to rafters and trusses.
- Splintering and cracked wood.
- Sagging or wet insulation.
- Asbestos.
- Proper Ventilation.
After inspecting everything, the roofing contractor will create and show you a roof inspection report that addresses the condition of your roof. They will also suggest the best solutions and an estimate for repairs.
Inspecting your roof is essential to maintaining your home’s safety and longevity. You will also save money by taking these preventative measures before serious damage occurs. If you need more information about the roof inspection checklist and services, we can help.
Are you looking For Reliable Roof Inspection Services?
A roof inspection is essential before you renovate your home, rent a house or sell a property. At Excel Renovation, we have the industry’s best roof inspectors who have been helping people throughout Loretto and surrounding Minnesota areas. With over 17 years of combined experience, our team is dedicated to turning your house into a home. If you want to know your roof’s condition, we can offer you a free roof inspection. Call us at (612)-439-5005 and discuss your concerns with one of our experts.
