Your roof takes care of you and your family…do it a favor and give it a yearly inspection so that it can continue to keep you safe, warm and dry for many years to come.
Sure, in most cases (damages and weather aside), a properly installed roof using high-grade materials can, and probably should, last around 15-20 years or so. However, states that get blasted with high winds, snow, ice and hail might need replacements (or at least repairs) much more frequently.
But how do you know when your roof might be heading to replacement-ville? The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests that you should have your roof inspected twice a year (in the spring and fall).
But Why?
Well, even the most durable high end roofs can, and do, get worn down over time. Wind, sun/UV light, rain, hail, ice and snow all take their toll. Over time parts of your roof can get damaged, and if not caught soon enough can lead to major repair problems and costs later on.
And the thing about roof damage is that its often hard to spot. Trained professionals can detect even the slightest of wear and hidden damages and a roof inspection can be just the thing you need to keep your roof maintained and functional for years to come.
What is a Roof Inspection?
Roof inspections are just that, an inspection of your roof by a trained professional to determine the health of your roof’s condition, the integrity of materials and estimations of how long it may last until you need a replacement, repair or restoration job.
Are Roof Inspectors Different From Home Inspectors?
Yes. Unlike home inspectors, roofing inspectors specialize in one thing: roofs. Think of a home inspector as a jack-of-all-trades but a master of none.
Roof inspections involve a specific process, art and science to uncover or determine damages that might not even be evident on the surface. For example they may use infrared sensors to locate areas of your roof that vary in temperature and might be indicators of moisture, rotted wood or mold. Conversely, this type of technique might yield information as to where heat is actually escaping from your roof, indicating structural issues or improper installation or insulation.
How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?
The cost of a roofing inspection may vary widely depending on where you live, the type of roof you have, the complexity, pitch or materials used and the level of inspection necessary. However, most inspections range between $200-$300 on average.
But this cost is negligible compared to the cost of expensive repairs from damages as a result of NOT inspecting your roof and catching small issues before they become big problems.
What Does a Roof Inspection Include?
Here is a short list of common things your roof inspection might include. Be sure to talk with your contractor about what’s included and ask about any special considerations that might be required.
- Overall physical appearance of your roofs exterior surfaces
- Overall physical appearance of your roofs interior surfaces
- Inspection for evidence of damages (granules, discoloration, moss, dents, cracks, peeling, etc)
- Condition of surrounding fascia, drains, gutters, skylights, chimneys and vents
- Inspection of roof valleys for integrity and wear
- Inspection of flashing
- Proper insulation
- Loss of heat
- Ventilation check
- Examination of ice shields and damns
- A full write-up / report and recommendations
Give us a call today to schedule a roofing inspection for your home or office. We’d love to see how we can help prevent future issues and help you learn ways you can help maintain the roof over your head for years to come.