Even if you keep an eye on the roof to see what it’s up to with every seasonal change, there might come a time when your roofing system needs the attention of a professional roofing contractor. For instance, a certified roof inspection might be required before selling your home. The following is a brief guide outlining what you can expect after calling a contractor for a roof inspection.
There’s No Charge
Many roofing companies provide a free estimate. The company will typically schedule an appointment. On the agreed-upon day, the contractor will come to inspect the roof, resulting in an estimate listing what needs fixing. The attic is often a part of the roof inspections – they will check for moisture and insulation issues. The estimate should also include cost breakdowns for materials and labour.
Should be on the Roof
It’s recommended for a homeowner to conduct regular roof inspections with binoculars. But for a thorough roofing inspection, the contractor should be on the roof. He or she will examine how all parts of the roof are working together; age and current condition of the roof; and whether the roof will need replacing now or in a few years’ time.
What a Roof Inspector Looks For
The main purpose of a roof inspection is to assure its structural integrity and to identify potential problems and current issues that will become worse if not addressed. A roofing contractor will check for:
- improper installation of roof components
- condition of existing shingles
- condition of flashings around structures on the roof like vents, skylights and chimneys
- whether or not fascia flashing/drip edge flashing needs to be added
- appearance of mold/mildew or other signs of trapped moisture under roofing tiles
Don’t forget that the gutters are part of the roof too. Water coming off the roof needs to be properly channeled away from the house. Keeping gutters free of debris ensures that rainwater freely flows through the gutters and into the downspouts. A roof inspector will alert you to any potential gutter systems problems that require attention.
