What is the Overall Goal of a Roof Inspection?
A professional roof inspector will examine the condition of the shingles, gutters, eaves and attic space. They will also look for leaks and signs of rot.
Leaks can go unnoticed for an extended period, resulting in serious water damage to the structure of the home and its contents. Regular inspections identify these weak points and enable timely repairs.
Damaged Shingles
The chief function of your roof is to keep what's underneath dry and protected, so any leaks or deterioration of the shingles themselves could mean problems for your attic and the house below. A professional inspector will look at the shingles and any underlayment that is visible and assess the damage to see if it warrants replacement.
It's not unusual to lose a few granules from the shingle surface over time, but if you notice large amounts of granules in the gutters or in the yard, your roof may have been damaged by recent hail. It is also worth noting whether you have noticed other neighbors replacing or repairing their roofs after recent storms or snow.
The inspector will check the condition of shingles, looking for a variety of different signs of wear and tear. These include:
Creasing, where the shingle tab is bent up and down until it forms a crease along the edge of the shingle tab above; flipping, where the shingle is folded over the shingle above; and tearing, which causes the shingle strip to be dislodged from the nail head. Creasing and flipping are indicative of wind damage, while tearing is likely due to roof leakage or other mechanical damage.
Other signs of shingle failure include:
Cracking, where the shingle has been split, usually across the face. A cracking shingle is probably near the end of its lifespan and will need to be replaced soon. If the crack runs vertically, it's a sign of moisture under the shingle, which can cause further problems.
A cracked shingle can sometimes be repaired by applying roofing cement over the crack. In some cases, the entire shingle should be removed and replaced with a new one.
The inspector will look for deteriorating shingle underlayment, and inspect the coping and caulk to make sure these are still in good condition. These items help join sections of the roof together, and they seal joints between the roof and other surfaces like chimneys. Your inspector will also look for rust on metal flashing, as well as leaking gutters and downspouts.
Leaking Gutters
The roof is one of the most important parts of a home. It protects the house from harsh weather conditions and accounts for a significant percentage of the total value of the structure. As such, it needs to be in excellent condition. A home inspector will examine the shingles, flashing, and downspouts to make sure all are in good shape. The inspector will also look for granule loss (texture on the shingles), which indicates that they are beginning to wear out. He or she will also inspect the rubber boots and seals around vent pipes, looking for gaps and deterioration.
The gutters and downspouts are vital components of a roofing system because they channel water away from the home’s foundation. This helps to prevent erosion, wood rot, and other problems associated with excess moisture. A leaking gutter or downspout can cause moisture to enter the house, which can lead to mold and other health issues. The inspector will check the gutters to make sure they are free of debris and rust, and that the downspouts are directing water at least 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation.
Leaking gutters may be the result of clogged downspouts or damaged downspout connections. These can usually be fixed with caulking. However, severe leaks can be a sign that the gutters are deteriorating or have become loose. In this case, they may need to be replaced.
The gutters and downspouts can often be inspected from the ground with binoculars or a camera, but the inspector will also need to climb up on the roof itself to get an accurate picture of the condition. This part of the inspection usually occurs in late summer or early fall, as this will allow the inspector to be certain that the roof and downspouts are in good shape before winter sets in and ice dams can form. The inspector will also take this opportunity to examine the soffit and fascia for signs of moisture, damage or decay. In addition, the gutters and downspouts will be inspected for proper installation and any gaps or holes that need to be filled.
Damaged Soffit
A damaged soffit, or attic ventilation trim, lets moisture enter the home, causing mold and wood damage. It also creates a biosphere for unwanted pests and rodents, which can chew insulation and wiring and gnaw at the rafters. A roof inspection should include a visual examination of the soffit, fascia, and gutters for signs of problems that need immediate solutions.
Fascia is a wood component that helps protect the rafters from moisture and bugs by preventing water and condensation buildup under the roof overhangs. It also adds a finished look to the edge of the roof, and enables proper installation of gutters and downspouts.
The soffit, or attic venting trim, is usually a simple design with small holes to provide air circulation in the attic space. It prevents attic leaks and rot, and helps direct hot or cold air towards the living areas of the house.
During a roof inspection, the inspector will check for soffit and fascia that are rotting or cracked. They should be firmly attached to the rafters, and should be in good condition. The inspector will also examine the condition of gutter installations, and make sure they are free from rust and are draining properly.
One of the biggest problems that homeowners overlook is a soffit or fascia that is missing pieces or sections. This can be difficult to identify without getting on a ladder, but should be considered an important warning sign that should prompt a call to a roofing contractor to perform immediate repairs.
Another way to assess the condition of soffits and fascia is to look for flaking paint or cracking. These are signs that the materials are starting to degrade, and can lead to a range of other problems. The inspector will also check for rust on the thin metal flashing that lines penetrations, such as skylights and chimneys, to prevent leaks from developing around them. They will also inspect associated features, such as masonry chimney caps and soffit venting, to ensure they are in good working order. If any of these are a concern, it is important to have them replaced right away by a professional roofing contractor to avoid further damage to your roof and the rest of your home.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a thin, protective metal material that connects the seams of different installations on your roof like chimneys, skylights and vents. When installed correctly, flashing is designed to seal water away from these specific areas and eliminate the chance of leaks. However, it’s not uncommon for flashing to deteriorate over time. If it’s damaged, water can seep through and damage the fascia and interior of your home.
During a roof inspection, your inspector will check the flashing for any signs of deterioration or damage. This can include small holes, discoloration or rust. It’s also important that the flashing is properly sealed around any penetrations in your roof. Inspecting the flashing will allow your inspector to catch any problems before they lead to leaking, mold growth and other issues in your home or business.
If your roof isn’t properly flashed, it can also allow water to seep underneath the shingles. This can cause the shingles to rot or even fall off completely. If this happens, you will need to replace the shingles and may need to repair any underlying damage as well.
Your inspector will also inspect the gutters and downspouts for any signs of damage or clogging. They will look for any rust or discoloration and determine whether the gutters are secure to the roof. Additionally, they will examine the attic and interior of the house for any signs of leaks or water damage.
The most common reason to have a roof inspection is to look for storm damage. If you’ve recently experienced high winds or hail, there could be damage to your roof and other parts of the home. Your inspector will be able to identify any damage on the ground level and provide recommendations for repairs.
When you have a professional roof inspection from Roof Repair League City, it can save you from having to spend money on expensive repairs. If you find any issues during your inspection, your inspector will be able to provide you with a detailed report and recommend the best course of action for fixing the problem. Having a professional inspection done in the fall is ideal, as any repairs can be completed before winter sets in and makes it difficult to work on your roof. Contact them today at https://www.leaguecityroofpro.com for a consultation, and let them protect your home from hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Trust in their experience and expertise to deliver the highest level of safety and protection for your property.
A professional roof inspector will examine the condition of the shingles, gutters, eaves and attic space. They will also look for leaks and signs of rot. Leaks can go unnoticed for an extended period, resulting in serious water damage to the structure of the home and its contents. Regular inspections identify these weak points and…