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What Is Included in a Roof Inspection?

Aug 10, 2022
Regular roof inspections can help to keep your roof in good repair. It’s also a good way to discover possible problems before they become major issues that could cause a lot of expensive damage. Homeowners can inspect their own roofs, but it’s recommended to have it done professionally because a roofer will better know what they’re looking for. But what happens during a roof inspection? What comes included in a roofing inspection may differ depending on the contractor, but in general, the following are standard for roof inspections.

Exterior Roof Inspection

  During a roof inspection, the inspector will examine the exterior of your home, including the roof itself. In particular, the inspector will be looking for signs of roof damage. Not all of these signs are on the roof itself, so they may also inspect the ground near your home or the exterior walls. They’ll also inspect the surface of the roof, which is dangerous for homeowners to do. Walking on a roof requires proper technique and a professional will have the equipment and expertise to go up on your roof safely without damaging your roof.

Roof Damage the Inspector Will Look for

Roof Inspection The following are signs of roof damage that the inspector may look for during the exterior inspection:
  • Leaks
  • Cracked caulk
  • Damaged flashing
  • Moss or algae on the roof
  • Hail damage around the house
  • Water buildup on the ground
  • Discoloration on the walls or roof
  • Shingle roof damage:
    • Missing shingles
    • Granule loss
    • Curling shingles
    • Cracked shingles
    • Broken shingles
  • Tile roof damage:
    • Missing tiles
    • Cracked tiles
  • Metal roof damage:
    • Rust
    • Dents
    • Punctures
    • Movement
    • Damaged fasteners

Interior Inspection

inspect indoor Because roof damage can result in leaks that allow water to enter the home, roof inspections may also include interior inspections. Inside your home, the inspector will be looking specifically for signs of water damage. This can look like discoloration or mold and mildew on the ceilings, or even active leaks. The paint on the ceiling bubbling and peeling are also signs of water damage.

Attic Inspection

inspectors inside the house The interior part of the roof inspection will also involve looking at your attic. The attic is right under the roof, so it’s important for it to be checked for signs of leaks even if there’s no other evidence of water damage in the house. An inspector will look for the following in the attic:
  • Openings in the roof
  • Light coming in
  • Active leaks
  • Aging
  • Mold
  • Moisture
The inspector can also let you know if your attic doesn’t have enough insulation. Insulation can help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, so it’s important to have enough because it can help to lower your energy bills.

A Free Quote

Often, a roof inspection is completely free of charge. Roofing companies will offer the inspection for free and provide a quote for repairing the damage they find during the inspection. A very thorough inspection may cost money, but it’s common for basic inspections to be complimentary. Orlando Roof Installation, for example, offers complimentary inspections.