Roof Inspection is an examination of the exterior and interior components of a building’s roofing system. It’s often conducted by a qualified roofing professional or inspector.
During a roof inspection, the inspector will examine the shingles and other materials for damage, wear, or decay. They will also look at the gutters and drainage systems for proper functioning.
When a shingle is damaged, it can expose the underlayment and roof deck to moisture. Over time, this can lead to rot and other structural problems. In addition, it can compromise the insulation value of your home. If you find a shingle with extensive damage, it is recommended that you replace it immediately.
If you notice that a number of shingles in a particular area are damaged, consider hiring a roofing contractor to perform a complete roof replacement rather than simply repairing the affected shingles. Taking this approach may be more cost-efficient in the long run as repaired shingles are not as durable as a new shingle.
In addition to examining the condition of shingles, a roof inspection should include examining all of the roof’s material. This includes examining flat roofing materials, assessing the condition of pipe boots and roof flashing, and looking for signs of water damage, such as rust stains or moss and algae growth.
3-tab asphalt shingles are a relatively durable roofing option, but they can still get damaged by weather fluctuations, heavy impact, and insufficient ventilation in the attic. A damaged shingle can also compromise the insulation value of your home, leading to higher energy bills.
Often, the best way to repair a damaged shingle is by replacing it with a new one that matches the surrounding shingles in size and color. To do this, first, locate the nail that holds the damaged shingle in place. Loosen it by sliding a flat pry bar underneath and working around the nail. After you’ve loosened the nails, remove the shingle and nail the new shingle in place.
When you’re doing roof repairs, be sure to take safety precautions by wearing a harness, using a ladder with a wide base, and bringing a friend who can hold it securely. You should also wear protective eyewear and heavy-duty gloves. And remember, never climb on the roof alone. Always work on a dry day, and make sure you have plenty of bottled water to drink while working on the roof. This will prevent dehydration and keep you alert while working on the roof.
Leaking Gutters
Gutters help direct water away from a home’s windows, siding, foundation, and other vulnerable areas. If gutters are leaking, it can cause water to pool in these vulnerable areas and lead to expensive damage. A professional roof inspector will check the condition of gutters and downspouts during a roof inspection to ensure they are functioning properly. They will look for holes and cracks in the gutter system and make sure that the downspouts are not clogged with debris.
In addition, they will check the condition of the soffit and fascia to see how well they are secured. In some cases, these components may require replacement due to age or water damage. If the soffit or fascia are damaged, they can cause moisture to build up inside the roof system and shorten its lifespan.
Another potential problem with gutters is that they may be leaking due to unsealed joints and seams. A professional roofer will reseal these joints using butyl rubber gutter sealant to prevent leakage.
When rushing rainwater hits a gutter blockage, such as debris or an open seam, it will often spill over the sides of the gutter. This is a common cause of water leaks in gutters and should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid costly damage to the home.
During a roof inspection, an expert will also check the condition of the gutter hangers and ensure they are properly attached to the fascia board. If they are loose, they will need to be reattached with new gutter screws. In addition, an inspector will inspect the gutter system for any signs of rust or corrosion and ensure they are free from dents and bends.
Gutters are essential to a safe and functional roof system. However, if you are not comfortable climbing ladders to perform roof repairs, then a professional will be able to assess the condition of your gutters and recommend an appropriate repair strategy. For example, if the gutters are leaking from open seams or holes, a professional can repair these issues by cutting a piece of aluminum flashing that fits the size of the hole and applying it with butyl gutter sealant. They can then use a putty knife to smooth the sealant and ensure it is completely smooth and even.
Deteriorated Flashings
Flashings are the unsung heroes of your roof, shielding areas where penetrations in the roofing system occur. They’re usually made of metal and sealed with caulk to provide a water-tight seal. Without functioning flashing, moisture would be able to seep into these areas and cause rot or mold. Regular inspections, keeping them clean and ensuring proper installation can help prevent flashing deterioration.
A well-functioning flashing keeps moisture from leaking into areas where it should not be, such as the ceiling inside a house. This can cause mold, water stains and damage to shingles and fascia boards. It can also contribute to rot and structural damage in the building itself. When a flashing is deteriorated, it is time to replace or repair it.
Signs of a deteriorating flashing include rust or corrosion, cracks or gaps, and the material flaking or lifting away. While the best way to inspect a flashing is to get on your roof, you can also look for signs of deterioration from the ground in your attic. These can include cracked caulking around chimneys, rust spots on flashing, wavy shingles near vent pipes or other penetrations, and masses of moss or lichen.
In most cases, repairing a deteriorated flashing is relatively easy. If you can find the damaged section of flashing, remove it from its mounting by carefully prying it up with a utility knife or a putty knife. If it’s nailed or screwed in place, use a hammer or screwdriver to loosen and remove the fasteners. Once the old flashing is removed, carefully clean the area and apply a layer of roofing cement to it to ensure a water-tight seal.
Once the roofing cement has dried, test it by spraying the area with a hose or waiting for rain. If there are no leaks, you can leave the flashing repaired as is. If there are leaks, you can remove the shingle near the flashing and cut a new piece of flashing to size before reinstalling it. Then, use a putty knife or nailing tool to apply roofing cement to the new flashing and nail it into place. Be sure to cover the nails or screws with a fresh layer of roofing cement afterward to prevent water from seeping through the holes.
Poor Ventilation
Poor ventilation isn’t typically thought of as a roofing problem, but it can dramatically affect the lifespan of your roof. Without adequate ventilation, excessive heat and moisture can damage the shingles and roof decking, leading to leaks and structural home damage. Insufficient ventilation also leads to musty and stale indoor air, as mold and mildew grow in the attic space due to the lack of fresh air.
A regular, professional roof inspection can help you identify warning signs of poor ventilation. These include blistering or granule loss on the shingles, which can result in premature shingle deterioration and a shorter lifespan for your roof. A lack of ventilation can also cause uneven roof temperatures, which can lead to ice dams. These are formed when melting snow drips down the steeper areas of the roof, then refreezes along the cooler eaves. If left unattended, ice dams can eventually infiltrate your roof and cause extensive structural and water damage to your home.
Good attic ventilation keeps the living spaces below your roof comfortable and cool, while preventing excess heat and moisture from damaging your roof and degrading indoor air quality. A professional can help you balance intake and exhaust vents, ensure that attic insulation doesn’t block your vents, and install powered ventilation solutions like attic fans for improved airflow.
When a roofing company conducts a roof inspection, they may need to access your attic space to check the condition of the insulation, rafters, and the roof structure. Inspectors will look for mildew, mold, and rot on the attic insulation, rafters, and roof decking, as well as for signs that the attic is not adequately ventilated.
A regular, professional roof inspection is a vital part of your home’s maintenance plan. It helps you keep your roof in good condition, reduce energy costs, and extend its lifespan. In addition, a roof inspection can also uncover issues that need to be addressed before they become costly problems. Make sure to schedule a routine inspection on an annual basis to address any concerns before they deteriorate further.
