Last Updated on January 10, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford
As a homeowner, you already know that there are certain maintenance tasks you must do on a regular schedule to make sure you don’t have a small problem that turns into a big problem due to neglect. For example, in the fall, you check your heating system to ensure you have heat during the cold months of the year and in the spring, you check your air conditioner.
Well, another maintenance task you should add to your list is a roof inspection. The experts at Niagara Roof Masters have put together this checklist to make this chore a bit easier.
General Roof Conditions
Before you start getting into the detailed checklist, start by getting a macro view of your roof’s overall condition. Specifically look for:
- Structural soundness – are there any rotten or broken boards that could result in a roof collapse or other major disaster?
- Physical damage – are your shingles in good condition or are there signs of physical damage (ripped or missing shingles)?
- Debris – debris on your roof can affect its ability to drain properly. Washing your roof can keep it in good working order.
- Drainage issues – This inspection point will need to be done after a major rain or snow storm because you need to identify any drainage issues from damaged gutters to low spots on the roof.
Specific Roof Features
Once you get an overall idea of your roof’s condition, move on to inspecting specific roof features. You’re looking for damaged or missing parts that need to be repaired before your roof sustains major damage from a storm or other event. The features of your roof that you should inspect are:
- Facia
- Soffit
- Flashing
- Skylights
- Chimneys
- Vents
- Gutters
- Drains
If you see any damaged parts, take the time to repair or replace them because at this point, the cost will be fairly low. If you don’t fix or replace the damaged parts as soon as you find them, you could be setting yourself up for a large bill down the road.
It’s also a good idea to have a professional roofer take a look at any damage you find to advise you on your next steps. They might recommend that you just replace the damaged part or they might suggest it’s time for a new roof, depending on how the damaged part impacted the integrity of your roof.
Time Frame for Roof Inspection
As previously mentioned, homeowners should conduct a roof inspection at least once a year. This will allow you to catch anything problematic while it’s still a small issue. However, roofing professionals also suggest you inspect your roof after any major weather event, including hail, high winds, heavy snow, or prolonged rain.
While your roof is designed to withstand standard weather conditions in any given area, it’s not always going to fare well in a hurricane, tornado, blizzard or other unforeseen natural disaster. In fact, it’s recommended that you have a professional inspect your roof after one of these events to make sure your roof is still safe and secure.
FAQs
What does a roof inspection consist of?
A roof inspection typically includes an evaluation of the condition and functionality of both the interior and exterior components of a roof, such as:
– The Roof Covering (shingles, tiles, etc.) – Inspect for age, damage, and any signs of wear and tear.
– Flashing – Check for any rust, corrosion, or other signs of deterioration.
– Gutters and Downspouts – Examine for any blockages or damage.
– Vents – Inspect for proper ventilation and make sure all are in good condition.
– Chimney – Check for any signs of structural damage, such as cracks or crumbling mortar.
– Roof Decking – Look for signs of water damage, rot, and other issues.
In addition to these components, a roof inspection should also include an assessment of the attic space, if present, to check for any mold growth or moisture intrusion that could be caused by improper ventilation or leaky flashing.
A professional roof inspector will also inspect the overall condition of the roof and provide recommendations on any necessary repairs or maintenance. Additionally, they will be able to spot any potential problems before they become major issues, helping you avoid costly repairs in the future.
How often should you have a roof inspection?
It is recommended that you have a roof inspection at least once every three years, but more often if your roof is particularly old or has been exposed to severe weather. If you live in an area where extreme weather conditions are common, such as hurricanes or heavy snowfall, then it may be wise to inspect the roof twice a year.
Additionally, if any major repairs or replacements are needed, then you should have an inspection done right away. It is important to regularly check your roof to ensure that it is still in good condition and performing its job of keeping water out of the home.
A simple visual assessment may be enough to determine if there are any signs of damage or wear, but an inspection from a professional is best to ensure that all potential problems are identified.
It is also important to inspect the roof following any major storm, as some damage may not be easily noticed until it has been inspected by an expert. Regular inspections are an essential part of keeping your roof in top shape and can help prevent costly repairs or replacement down the line.
Conclusion
Responsible homeownership includes performing regular maintenance tasks each year. Add a roof inspection to your list to prevent a catastrophe down the road.
