It doesn’t matter what type of roofing material you have – shingle, metal, or tile – eventually, you’re going to need to inspect the roof before making repairs.
When it comes time for a pre-repair inspection, there are two objectives: First, ensure that all damage is recorded accurately, and next determine if the chimney needs repointing.
So, what are the proper steps to take when checking a roof for damage? They are pretty straightforward. Make a complete inspection of the entire roof structure very closely inspecting and recording any faults you find.
As you’re looking at the various parts of your roof make sure to cover all aspects: Is it free from leaks? Are the flashing’s in good condition and do they seal properly? Are there signs of previous leaks through holes or buckles in decorative tiles or shingles? Also, check around chimneys to make sure that the mortar is in good shape and pointing have no loose bricks. Also look at parapet walls which should be straight, secure, watertight (especially important if windows occur on these walls), and voussoired. Paying attention to these details will help you determine if the roof was built and installed properly.
Another step in your inspection is to check for any signs of dead vegetation on the roof which can indicate moisture problems under shingle roofs, as well as checking rafters for wood rot (again good indications of an improper installation). Finally, be sure to check the pitch of the entire roof. Pitch should be between 3:12 and 4:12. Even a slight variation in pitch could increase heat build-up and cause ice dams during cold weather which will lead to water leaking into your home. The pitch determines how fast or slow water flows off your roof so if it’s not correct serious damage can occur.
The last part of this process is to inspect for any signs of erosion damage. Erosion is most evident on a flat roof but rainstorms can cause protective granules or shingles to be washed off of sloped roofs as well. Once again check shingle color, missing granules or shingles, and cracks in the sealant.
When making notes during this process be sure to keep an eye out for uniformity when dealing with flashing, chimneys, parapets, rake tiles (the long ones that drain water from lower angles), and vents. Small variations among these features could suggest problems with waterproofing details at one time or another which might cause leaks. It’s also important during your inspection to determine if all components are properly installed and maintained as waterproofing materials can fail after a short period.
Now, although this process seems fairly simple there are some pitfalls that you should avoid when inspecting your roof. The most common mistake DIY homeowners make is not writing down everything they find as they’re making their inspection. It’s important to take pictures and write down every possible detail at the time of the inspection so nothing gets overlooked or forgotten about later. This will also ensure that if you end up having to pay for the repairs yourself everything will be accounted for properly when you file an insurance claim.
You should also do a visual check before even stepping on your roof. Many serious accidents and fatalities have occurred because a homeowner has felt comfortable going up on his or her own roof without first checking its condition. Roofs are very dangerous places and can deteriorate very quickly calling for an immediate inspection.
Roof inspection
If you are buying or selling a home, it is important to have a roof inspection. A roof inspection will identify any problems with the roof and help you understand the condition of the roof. Most roof inspections include a visual inspection of the roof, a review of the roofing materials, and a check for leaks.
If you are buying a home, it is important to have a roof inspection before you close on the property. A roof inspection will identify any problems with the roof and help you understand the condition of the roof. Most roof inspections include a visual inspection of the roof, a review of the roofing materials, and a check for leaks.
If you are selling a home, it is important to have a roof inspection before you list the property. A roof inspection will identify any problems with the roof and help you understand the condition of the roof. Most roof inspections include a visual inspection of the roof, a review of the roofing materials, and a check for leaks.
If you are having a new roof installed, it is important to have a roof inspection before the work begins. A roof inspection will identify any problems with the roof and help you understand the condition of the roof. Most roof inspections include a visual inspection of the roof, a review of the roofing materials, and a check for leaks.
Thorough roof inspection
When inspecting a new roof, it’s important to be thorough. Make sure to check all of the following:
-The roofing material itself, for any signs of damage or wear
-The roof framing, for any damage or rot
-The flashing around chimneys and other roof penetrations, for proper installation and condition
-The gutters and downspouts, for proper installation and condition
If you’re not comfortable doing a roof inspection yourself, you can always hire a professional roofing contractor to do it for you.
Interior inspection
When inspecting a new roof, it’s important to also look inside the home for any potential damage. Make sure to check the ceilings, walls, and attic for any water stains or signs of leaks. If you notice any problems, be sure to report them to the contractor who installed the roof.
It’s also a good idea to have a professional roofer inspect the roof before you move in. This way, you can be sure that everything is in good condition and there are no hidden problems.
If you’re not sure how to inspect a roof, or if you notice any damage, be sure to contact a professional roofer for help. They will be able to assess the situation and make sure that your new roof is in good condition.
