The goal of a roof inspection is to ensure it’s in good condition and to schedule any work that’s needed to keep it that way. Sometimes an inspection is part of routine roof maintenance and other times it’s a necessary part of a process, like a home renovation or property sale.
What many homeowners and property owners wonder, though, is how often a roof inspection even needs to be done. Because from where they stand, everything looks to be in good shape.
So, how do you know when it’s time for one?
In this post, we’ll explore various reasons why people schedule roof inspections and what the benefits are.
What Does a Roof Inspection Entail?
When we talk about roof inspections, we’re not suggesting you pull out the ladder and start walking around on your roof. If you have leaks, rot, or anything else going on, that would be a really bad idea (and dangerous, too).
Also, it’s easy to miss roofing issues if you don’t know what to look for. While something like broken shingles might be obvious, some leaks and damage are deeper and more insidious. It usually takes a professional to notice all the signs that a roof needs work.
Instead of going the DIY approach, schedule a roof inspection with a professional roofing contractor. They’ll send an inspector out to your property to thoroughly examine the roof.
In addition to visually inspecting it themselves, they may also use tools like drones and infrared scanners. That’s another reason why it’s better to let the pros handle the inspection for you.
Once it’s done, you’ll receive a report that summarizes what state your roof is in. It will also provide recommendations on any maintenance or repairs that will help keep it in good condition.
When Should You Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection?
Most roofing professionals will tell you that your roof should be inspected twice a year, usually in the fall and spring. At the very least, you should schedule a professional roof inspection annually as part of the general maintenance and security of your home.
That said, there may be other reasons outside of maintenance when you might need one done. For example:
1. You’re Worried About a Leak
A leak in the roof could look like anything from stains on your ceiling to mold accumulating in the attic. If you suspect that water has worked its way through your roof and into your home or the structure of it, an inspection is definitely in order.
Your contractor will be able to tell you where the leak is, how severe it is, and what should be done to prevent it from becoming a full-blown roofing emergency. And if there’s nothing wrong, they’ll at least be able to give you some peace of mind.
2. The Rainy/Stormy/Cold Season Is About to Start (or End)
One of the reasons why roofing professionals suggest inspections every fall and spring is because that’s when we tend to have more temperate weather.
This way, we can inspect your roof before the big storm seasons arrive. If we can repair and fortify your roof during these seasons, it’ll help your roof withstand whatever next season’s storms, icy weather, high winds, or extraordinary rainfall bring.
You might not be able to wait until the spring or fall for an inspection if a serious storm has hit your area — and that’s fine. Roofing contractors can work in all kinds of weather. So, if your home has been damaged in a recent storm, get in touch.
3. You’re About to Renovate Your Property
If you’re planning to renovate your home or property, your roof is probably going to be part of the remodel or expansion. But before you hire anyone to start working for you, it’s a good idea to schedule a roof inspection.
Your roofing contractor will look for all the usual signs of wear-and-tear and damage. In addition, they’ll take into consideration any alterations you’re planning. For instance:
- Expanding the size of the house and, with it, your roof
- Adding skylights or solar panels
- Switching to a different style or color of shingles
Their insights and recommendations will help you decide if repairs or a full roof replacement are needed during renovation.
4. You’re Planning to Sell
Whenever a property goes on the market, both parties involved — the buyer and seller — often want to have a roof inspection done.
For the seller, a roof inspection can help identify problem areas that need repair. Not only will this make your property more attractive to buyers, it can actually help you sell it for a higher price (and recuperate some of the money you spent to repair or replace it).
Depending on where you live, there may also be requirements regarding the condition or age of your roof. If it hasn’t been replaced within the mandated timeframe, you’ll be on the hook for it before you sell.
5. You’re Planning to Buy a Home or Property
Even if the seller performs their own roof inspection, you may want to schedule your own as a buyer.
One reason is if the documentation they provide is flimsy or comes from a roofing contractor you don’t know or trust. Another reason is to assess the true value of the property.
That said, not every home or property purchase needs to come with a brand new roof. However, it’s important to understand the condition of what you’re buying, so you’re aware of what sorts of repair or replacement costs you’ll be dealing with in the future.
Is It Time to Get Your Roof Inspected?
If it’s been more than 12 months since you inspected your roof, it’s definitely time to schedule an inspection. It’s easy to miss the signs of smaller leaks and damage, especially when you’re so busy dealing with everything happening under the roof.
Routine roof maintenance can extend the life of your roof, fortify it during major weather events, and also give you peace of mind that your home is safe and in good condition.
If you’re ready to schedule your roof inspection, get in touch with us today.