Roofs protect buildings from the elements. If yours suffers damage from storms or other factors, a roof inspection catches problems early and may help you file an insurance claim. Contact Roof Inspection now!
A professional inspection focuses on the condition of shingles, gutters, downspouts, ventilation, and other roof components. It can also include an examination of a home’s interior to identify leaks and other problems.
Gutter downspouts are designed to carry rainwater from the gutters away from the building, preventing water damage. They are a vital part of the drainage system, which is why gutters and downspouts are inspected during a roof inspection. They are inspected for their physical condition, such as rust or sagging, and for clogs, loose fasteners or missing sections. Gutters are also inspected for proper slope and alignment towards downspouts, ensuring water drains properly. The inspector may check for wire gutter strainers that prevent large debris and leaves from clogging the downspouts and sewer lines. They are also checked for adequate spacing between downspouts, to ensure that no one downspout is overloaded with water during heavy rainfall.
Downspouts are generally made of galvanized iron, aluminum or copper and are fixed to the edge of the gutter with downspout supports. They are installed with a minimum of elbows, as they tend to clog easily, and should have a downhill slope. They should also drain away from the foundation of the house, as this will help prevent soil erosion and protect basements from flooding. Downspouts can be connected to a storm drain, a sump pump, a pond or a drywell, to ensure the water is safely dissipated.
Gutters are usually cleaned by spraying them with a garden hose, in order to remove any dirt and debris. A clean gutter is essential to a healthy roof, as it helps prevent leaks, rot and other moisture problems. Gutters should be regularly cleaned, in the spring and fall, to keep them working effectively. If your gutters are not functioning properly, a professional can recommend the best course of action for fixing them. This will prolong the life of your gutters, and improve the overall look of your home or business. In some cases, gutters may need to be replaced if they are too old or damaged. A new gutter system can also help to increase the value of your property, and add to the curb appeal of your home or business. If your gutters need replacing, your certified roofing expert will be able to advise you on the best system for your needs.
Flashings
Flashing is a piece of metal placed where shingles butt up against a wall or chimney, or in roof valleys. It helps seal leaky areas. Inspectors examine flashing to make sure it is in good condition, with no signs of rust or damage. They also check that flashing is installed where needed.
Flashing comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. One type, called continuous flashing, is installed where a roof meets a vertical wall. Another is called apron flashing, and it’s used around chimneys and roof windows. Roof flashing can be made from copper, galvanized steel, or aluminum. Some are even available in a range of colors and finishes, which can help with the aesthetics of a home’s exterior.
Inspectors also assess the slope of a roof to ensure it suits the roofing material and allows for proper drainage. They look for signs of pooling water, which could indicate problems with the roof’s structure or insufficient slope. They’ll also inspect gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re clear of blockages and properly aligned to drain water away from the home’s foundation.
The roof’s surface is examined for curling, peeling, or missing shingles, as well as granule loss that indicates wear and tear. Inspectors also look at the flashing around chimneys, skylights, and other penetrations to make sure it’s sealed correctly.
A roof inspection might include an interior assessment, in which case the inspector checks ceilings and walls for moisture damage. The inspector may also take a look at HVAC vents to see that they’re properly sized and situated for good ventilation.
A complete roof inspection should also include an examination of the attic, if accessible. The inspector will look for signs of water intrusion and leaks, such as water stains, mold, and musty odors. If there are problems, the inspector will recommend repairs. Some inspectors might also look at the insulation to ensure it’s in good condition. This can save homeowners money by identifying the need for insulation replacement before it becomes a problem. The attic can also provide clues about the age of a roof, as well as its structural integrity.
Siding
The type of siding you have – whether wood, vinyl, or brick – plays a major role in your home’s longevity. It is also the first line of defense against water damage and mold that can affect other areas of your house. Inspecting your siding is a critical component of a roof inspection.
In the case of wood siding, your inspector will look for signs of rot or a soft area that could indicate moisture infiltration. They will also check for moss and algae growth, which can cause deterioration of the underlying materials and lead to structural problems. They will examine gutters to ensure they are not clogged and can channel rainwater away from the home’s foundation, and they will inspect downspouts for signs of physical damage or poor attachment.
If you have vinyl siding, your inspector will check for cracks in the surface and any gaps where debris might accumulate. They will also note any discoloration or fading that might signal the need for replacement. They will also examine the underlayment and flashing to spot any damage.
Metal siding is often made of aluminum or galvanized steel. It is fastened to the roof with special fasteners called furring strips. These fasteners hold the panels in place and ensure a watertight seal around any openings, such as vent pipes or chimneys. In addition, the inspector will check for any metal flashing near chimneys or roof penetrations. They will also check for any rust or corrosion that might be present, and they will look for areas where the panels are loose or sagging.
The inspector will also get up on the roof to check its general condition, including shingles and tiles. They will look for any rotting, curling, or missing shingles, and they will look for any signs of leaking, such as water stains in the ceiling or walls. They will also examine the attic to see if it is properly ventilated, as inadequate ventilation can contribute to a host of roofing issues, including ice dams. The inspector will also check the rafters and trusses for any signs of damage or sagging, as they are critical to the structure of the home.
Attic
One of the main functions of a roof inspection is to check the attic, and it’s usually the first place roof leaks manifest themselves. Leaks can wreak havoc with the structure of the home, and it’s crucial to catch them before they get out of hand. This is why a professional attic inspection is so important.
Leaks and other problems can be hidden from view, especially in a dark attic. A professional has access to specialized equipment that can reveal even the most hidden issues, such as water spots, mold, or wood rot. They can also inspect the attic’s ventilation system, which is critical to preventing excessive moisture and improving the overall energy efficiency of the home.
Roof inspectors are also trained to look at the rafters and trusses of the attic, which can be an indicator of the structural integrity of the roof above. They’ll examine these areas for damage and recommend repairs as needed.
A roofing specialist can also use thermal imaging in the attic to detect potential problems, like air leaks or gaps in insulation. Using a thermal camera to find these issues saves time and improves accuracy, safety, and efficiency during an inspection.
When examining the attic, an inspector will also take note of the amount of insulation in the area and whether or not it’s sufficient to provide acceptable energy efficiency. They’ll also confirm that the attic vents are properly installed and unblocked, as well as that they’re adequately sized to promote proper roof ventilation.
Another thing they’ll check is the presence of pests, which can be a significant problem in attics. In addition to damaging the attic insulation, rodents can cause health problems for homeowners by spreading disease and introducing allergens into the home.
Getting on top of the roof is not something that should be attempted by anyone without the appropriate equipment and experience. It’s a dangerous and difficult job that can be easily botched by inexperienced people. Fortunately, there’s no need to worry about these issues when you hire a licensed and certified roofing professional for a comprehensive roof inspection.