You can say a lot of things about roofs, and most of them might be true. But one thing that nobody can argue with is that roofs are tops. This statement can be taken in several ways. A roof does for the top of your home. It can also act like a "top" or lid for your home, keeping the rain out. Then, there's the third meaning, which is the one we happen to like the most: roofs are the best. (People say things are "tops" when they really like them.) Since we like roofs so much, we've decided to write about them, and you've discovered the blog where we do that.
Brian Riley
Whether you are looking to purchase a home, want to know the state of the roof, or you received a request from your insurance provider, there are several reasons why you might need to schedule a roof inspection. Roofing inspectors are trained professionals who can assess any damage to your roof, if your roof needs repairs, or if the roof on a prospective home should be replaced. If you scheduled a roofing inspection, here are a few things you can expect.
An Exterior Inspection
The inspector will go on your roof and look for any noticeable signs of damage. This is especially important if your roof suffered damage after a storm and the inspection is required by your insurance provider. Your inspector will also look for other signs of wear and tear, such as missing shingles, cracked caulk, missing or damaged flashing, and leaks.
If you have a masonry chimney, the inspector will also determine if any repairs to the chimney are necessary. The venting will also be inspected, and the professional will determine if your roof has adequate venting. This is especially important if you scheduled an inspection prior to purchasing a home. Inadequate ventilation can cause issues in the home's interior, such as mold.
An Interior Inspection
Often, the signs of roofing issues are most noticeable on your home's interior. The inspector will check your attic for any signs of issues with your roof, such as water damage to the rafters, damage to the ceiling of your attic, or signs of mold. The professional will also examine the attic insulation to determine if it is functional or should be replaced.
A Detailed Summary and Repair Estimate
After the inspection, you will be provided with a detailed list of issues with your roof. This will include any issues with the shingles, underlayment, gutters, and your home's interior. The inspector might also recommend upgrading the insulation in your attic, especially if the insulation is of a lower R-value. A detailed repair estimate will be included. Provide your insurance company with any repair estimates and other information provided by the inspector.
If the inspection was performed prior to purchasing a house, this information can be used when negotiating the price of the home. Additionally, you can place a contingency on the purchase that states any damage to the roof or attic must be repaired before you are willing to purchase the house.
During a roof inspection, you can expect the professional to perform a thorough inspection of your roof, your home's attic, and a detailed list of any recommendations or necessary repairs needed.