3 Things You Should Know About the Roof Inspection Process. Professionally examining your roof can help you identify current problems and potential problems so you can fix them before an emergency arises.
In the fall and over the spring months, and after any major storm involving high winds, hail, and flying debris, it is recommended to schedule a roof inspection. You should schedule the frequency of inspections based on the roof’s age if you are investing in preventative maintenance for your roof. A roof inspection is typically conducted at least once per year by homeowners.
You might wonder how to get your roof professionally inspected if you haven’t done so before. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
What are the warning signs that you may need a roof inspection?
You should have a professional check your roof for leaks and drafts as they are two of the most noticeable signs. Besides watching for visible leaks, you should also consider checking your ceiling for dark streaks or stains, which can indicate that you have roof leaks and moisture is causing damage to your roof and home.
The cause of cool drafts, on the other hand, is not always your roof, but a defective roof can adversely affect air circulation and ventilation, leading to increased energy bills.
A more detailed inspection may reveal damage that an untrained eye might not notice. Thus, even if there are no obvious signs that your roof needs repair or replacement, it is still wise to have it done. Scheduling an annual inspection of your roof is always a good idea.
What is the difference between an exterior and interior inspection?
Interior roof inspections consist of checking the attic for proper insulation, ventilation, moisture, and mold. Exterior roof inspections consist of climbing up on the roof and checking for leaks and proper flashing, as well as the condition of your shingles and chimney.
After the professional has completed the inspection, he or she can provide you with a detailed report and implement a plan for you to fix it properly.
What are roofers looking for during an inspection?
It will depend on the roofing material used to determine what a roofing professional will look for during an inspection.
When a roofing professional inspects a shingle roof, he/she will look for a few common issues:
Signs of water damage
Several factors can lead to water damage, including clogged gutters, improperly installed or damaged flashing, and windstorms that lift shingles, allowing water to seep through.
Mold
Those in the attic who see mold are probably suffering from excessive water damage. Roofers will focus their attention on these areas during an interior inspection.
Shingle deterioration
Roof damage can be caused by missing or loose shingles or by rotting or algae growth on the roof
Clogged gutters
If you find shingle granules in excess in your gutters, that means your shingles are being worn out. You can add grains to your shingles to make them heavier and stop UV rays from damaging them.
Identification of leaks and their causes is also a priority during an inspection of your metal roof. During an inspection, roofing professionals will pay particular attention to the following areas:
Loose seams
The weather affects the expansion and contraction of metal roofs. This can lead to the loosening of screws and seam separation. Water buildup and condensation could damage the roof’s underlying structure if this isn’t addressed immediately.
Damaged flashing
When your metal roof’s flashing has pulled away and left a gap, water can seep underneath. Undersides of the panels can also be corroded by this process.
Rust
Rust will eat away at your metal roof, causing large holes that will allow water to leak into your home, or worse, cause the panels to fall apart.
Are you thinking about having your roof inspected professionally? Get a quote for Post Oak Roofing by contacting us or scheduling an inspection with us at 469-363-6273 in Tyler and Allen, TX.