Roofing inspections are activities conducted to determine the roof’s integrity, and the period the roof is likely to last before it is entirely replaced. The process does not involve the inspectors climbing on top of roofs and pooling the tiles down; instead, they use their unique knowledge and procedures to determine a roof’s lifespan without tearing down anything. They do their examinations by glancing at the roofs; no one would want their roofs to be torn or broken for examination.
People do this for various reasons according to St. Louis Constructors 911; you need to be sure that your roofs will be able to endure the strong winter winds and the summer sun. Second, the inspector can identify the areas that need to be corrected. Finally, you will take the required measures; there are many benefits attached to these activities, while other people know how essential this is, and some still doubt the activities’ effectiveness. This article explains the reasons why you should consider the process important:
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Enhance your roof’s lifespan
There are high chances that you have spent a lot of money on your roof, most people take roofing to be among the top and serious investments, therefore you should know that the longer the investment lasts, the more value you get from your money. Moreover, when you regularly inspect your roofs, you will be increasing their lifespan because you will quickly be repairing the minor problems, which are the primary cause of more significant issues at the end.
Remember, where these minor repairs reach the critical problems levels, you will need to conduct a premature roof replacement. In short, an annual roof inspection is equal to an oil change in your car; where you regularly repair the roof, you will be avoiding entire roof repair or replacement as a result of reduced lifespan.
Simplify your insurance claims
Today, a significant number of people prefer covering or protecting their roofs against storms and other severe weather damage. Therefore, it is essential to have your roof inspected if you suspect any injuries; if you are working with more experienced roofing inspectors, they will file a report on the roof’s condition. The reports filed are essential in simplifying the process of making insurance claims. Remember, the claims will be approved within the shortest time possible when the information comes from the reliable. In addition, there will be details for the damages, causes, and estimated costs for compensation.
Easy detection of water damage
Everyone knows how roofs can be easily damaged by water; what makes it even worse is that it is almost impossible to detect the damages caused by water. You might see the exterior of your roof looking perfect, but the inner condition is worse or getting serious damages. You might be thinking that your roofs are in good condition, but water is making things worse by building on the surfaces of your roof. A professional roofing inspector will help you determine such problems and give you solutions or ways to regulate the problem easily. The inspectors will quickly determine the minor problems like moisture building in the inner surfaces; the moment they identify a problem, they immediately find a solution.
Reduce repair costs
Have you ever thought of the money you will save if you manage the minor repairs? If you compare the cost people spend on repairing the minor damages and the amount they use to repair an entire roof, you will find that the people who inspect their roofs regularly spend less. Moreover, you will reduce the in-house damages that might occur from the long term or too much staying without checking the roofs. You will not only be reducing the repair cost, but you will be enhancing the performance of your roof.
Ensure better drainage
Remember, when the roofs are inspected, the inspectors also consider the gutters and other drainage systems within your roof. If water does not properly drain off the roof, it might stagnate and cause damage to the top or become a breeding area for mosquitoes. To prevent this, ensure that your roof is checked by professional roofing inspectors to detect any problems that might occur.
The bottom line
Roofing inspections play a significant role in improving the lifespan of your roofs as they consider your pocket needs. Choosing the best inspectors will lead you to have the best roofs in town and experiencing professionalism in checking your roof’s progress. Research online to find the best and qualified inspectors, for they are the only people who can give you quality services you can rely on. Ask friends and other people who have used the services before to direct you to the right professionals to get you through.
Here’s what to expect during a roof inspection!
Hiring professionals for roof inspection is one of the best decisions to keep the roof in good condition. Here’s what the roof inspector will check out during the roof inspection
The ventilation in the attic
A roofing contractor will begin by examining the attic. He will see if the attic has appropriate ventilation—so many roof problems start due to ineffective ventilation in the attic. Trapped cold and hot air can affect the performance and durability of the roof; replacement will be a necessary a lot sooner than expected.
Proper ventilation in the attic is crucial for the roof’s condition, so it makes sense that the roof inspector begins with an attic inspection.
The layers of the roof
When the contractor goes up the roof, he will look at the layers of the roof. Should he decide that the damage is severe, repairs will be necessary and your roof will need extra layers.
If the roof has more than one layer, the roof replacement quote will include the costs for the number of layers torn off.
Obvious roof leaks and interior water stains
Water leaks in the roof will cause water stains on the ceiling—a sign that you can easily spot on your own. Once the roof inspector sees the leaks, he will also look for the cause of leakage. After identifying the cause, he will recommend roof repairs and even replacements if the damage is severe.
The roof vents
Regardless of the type of vents you have on the roof, your roof inspector will examine it. For instance, the risk of obstruction is high for soffit, ridge, or gable vents. If you have gas appliances, the roofer will also inspect if the contraction and expansion of the metal have pulled the fasteners out of the gas vent.
Roof shingles
Along with efficient attic ventilation, adequate roof installation is essential for the roof’s condition and durability. Don’t expect the roof to last if roofers didn’t set up the shingles correctly. They will check out for nails driven in sideways; they cause tiny bumps in the roof. Nails that hit cracks and are backed out are also signs of improper installation. Missing, loose, blistering, cracked, buckling shingles are also tail tellers of poor roof installation.
The roof’s decking condition
As the roof inspector is on the roof, he will also examine the roof’s decking. He will test it to see if the surface feels solid or if it’s spongy. The nails in the decking should hold firmly if the decking is in good condition. Simply walking on the decking isn’t the only method for the roofer to establish the roof’s state.
A good roofer will examine the decking’s condition after turning off the shingles. If the decking is altered, the contractor will recommend replacement when he also replaces the roof.
The skylights and roof’s penetration
The roof penetration refers to anything that sticks out through the roof. When the roofing contractor examines the roof, he also inspects the penetrations. Should you have skylights, the roofer checks out if they’re leak-free or not.
For instance, the roof pipes should come with neoprene pipe boots that stop water from running down into your house. In time, the boots will crack and cause a leak if not properly managed. We recommend you keep the roof leak-free by examining it from time to time.
The roof flashing
Another thing your roofer will examine when inspecting the roof is the roof flashing. The roof flashing refers to the metal installed where the shingles meet a surface, such as a chimney, walls, or open valleys. The roofer will see if the metal is rusted or not. The flashing has to be in good condition to withstand the elements and block water from seeping.
The chimney
The roofer will inspect the chimney, as it’s also a roof penetration. He will observe the mortar’s condition, the flashing, and the condition of the chimney cap. Should anything grow out of the mortar, the chimney will develop moisture.
Even if the roofer can diagnose your chimney’s condition, you will need to contact a chimney company for chimney repairs.
The gutters
A reliable roofer will always complete the roof inspection by examining the gutters and downspouts. He will begin with reviewing their integrity; there should be no open seams nor cracks. He will also see if any blockages or flow restrictions make the vegetation and debris get backed up.
Standing water is another sign that good roofers catch up. Gutters with standing water direct the water in the wrong direction. Roof maintenance includes many things, gutter cleaning included.
How do you find a reliable roofing contractor?
If you decide to hire professionals for a roof inspection, you need to make sure you hire a reliable team. You can verify the roofer’s qualifications and directories before you sign the contractors.
Trustworthy roofing contractors will be:
- Licensed in your area
- Experienced
- Willing to offer references
- Insured
- Bonded. As a result, a bonding company has the money to file a claim against the company.
- Ready to provide you with an accurate quote for the job.
As for roofing services, they vary a lot from one company to another. We recommend you ask two or three roofers and see what their list of services includes. Some of the most common roofing services are:
- Roof inspections for damage and leaks
- Repairs and maintenance
- Weatherproofing
- Insulating
- Ventilating
- Replacement and installation of new roof
- Debris removal
- Sealing, treating, and painting (if the roofs are made of metal or wood)
- Roof cleaning (cleaning the roof of moss, mildew, and buildup)
- Shoveling (removing ice dams and snow)
Some roofers also include siding, gutter, and window services. If you need these services, you should ask them. If the company manages both roofing and gutters simultaneously, you will save both time and money in the long run.
Independent contractors or roofing companies? Which one is best?
When you hire a roofing contractor, you can choose between a roofing company or independent contractors. Each of the categories has benefits and disadvantages. You need to compare bids for the best price and examine the roofer references, qualifications, and reviews.
Independent roofing contractors are great for quick repairs. However, they will need more time than a company for vast projects such as replacing the roof. Also, independent roofers may be specialized in specific styles.
Hire a roofing company for the vast jobs, as they have the large teams to complete the job fast. Roofing companies also provide you with manufacturer warranties, free consultations, and even discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do roofers also do roof inspections?
Roofers also perform roof inspections. They will begin with an internal review and check out the inside of your house; they look for signs of water intrusion. They will also look at the attic and look for signs of mold, aging, leaks, and moisture.
How much will you pay for a roof inspection?
Typically, you will pay anything between $120 and $300 for a roof inspection, whereas a roof certification is between $75 and $200. A roof inspection’s purpose is to identify any problems with the roof, whereas a roof certification will estimate the roof’s lifespan.
What fails a roof inspection?
Your roof will fail inspection if the inspectors identify broken, curled, or brittle shingles. Leaky spots and loose flashing will also cause the failure of the roof inspection. If your roof is severely damaged, you will need to spend around $10,000 or higher to replace it.
How often should you have your roof inspected?
Typically, you should inspect the roof twice a year. You can check out the roof on your own to see if there’s anything suspicious. If you feel you cannot appreciate your roof’s condition, we recommend hiring professionals for a roof inspection. Call the professionals in the spring and in the fall for a roof inspection.
What does a certified roof mean?
The roof certification is a written opinion that a Licensed Roofing Contractor emits to certify that your roof has no defects. The certificate also states that the roof is expected to work for a specific amount of time. Regularly, the Roof Certification period is around 1 to 2 years, but some are valid for five years.
