A home is an expensive investment. It’s important to perform maintenance tasks to retain property value and improve safety. A roof inspection is a significant home maintenance routine that plays a great role in enhancing your property’s longevity. Most people think roof inspection services are expensive, but they are worth it. Professional roof inspection requires professionalism and certain skills; therefore, homeowners should avoid the DIY routine. Adverse climatic conditions, such as excessive sun exposure, hailstorms, and strong winds, are the leading cause of roof damage. Extreme weather conditions lead to mould growth, unwanted structural issues, and roof leaks.

What Is Involved in a Roof Inspection?

An expert roof inspector in Stourbridge will examine all components of your roof, such as the stability of the roofing material, structural support, and signs of damage. In order to determine these roofing issues, a roof inspector will incorporate the following inspections:

1. Material Inspection

This portion of roof inspection focuses on various roof materials, including slate shingles, clay, metal plates, and shingles. A professional roof inspector will examine them for missing materials, damages, and staining from moss, rust, or water damage. In addition, the material inspection process includes checking the flashing underneath the roofing materials. This is essential because it helps identify cracks, pests, and leaks.

2. Structural Inspection

The structural inspection will focus on the overall roof system. This is an essential aspect of roof inspection because it helps the inspector identify signs of a sagging roof based on how your home’s roof planes are laid out. The structural inspection doesn’t concentrate on finding missing or damaged roofing materials but instead examines the wellbeing of the overall roofing system. Some of the signs that your roof might be sagging include the following:

– Damaged or missing collar ties
– Sagging ceiling
– Rotted, splintered, and cracked trusses or rafters
– Leaning or tilting exterior walls
– Damaged or leaning rafter ties

In addition, a reliable roof inspector in Stourbridge, will look at the conditions of your gutters, soffit, and fascia. If you have any chimneys, vents, or skylights, they’ll check the seals, exterior, and grout for any signs of damage.

3. Interior Inspection

The interior part of the inspection will tackle indoor signs of damage that are not visible from outside. Roof inspectors will check walls, attics, and ceilings. Some of the common signs of interior roof damage include:

– Pests in the attic
– Wood rot
– Water stains
– Beam of light, especially coming from the ceiling into the attic
– Mould and mildew
– Holes in the ceilings and walls
– Water stains

 

How Often Should You Get a Roof Inspection?

Roof type, environmental factors, and roof age influence the frequency of roof inspection. General guidelines suggest that a roof needs inspection after every 2 years to 5 years, depending on these factors. To keep minor roofing problems at bay, you should invest in roof inspection services more often than that.

When to Get a Roof Inspection?

There is no specific time to schedule a roof inspection. However, it is important to book an inspection during the spring, fall, or after a natural disaster or a major storm. There are signs that you need a roof inspection. Ignoring minor roof issues and repairs could be costly, especially in the long term. This is because they will turn into bigger problems in the future. Below are the common signs that it is time to get a roof inspection:

a. Scratches and Dents Around Roof Features

A visual examination can help you identify protruding roof damages around certain roof features, especially on the shingles and bottom edges of your chimney.

b. Problems with Gutters

Gutters play a significant role in protecting your property’s foundation. Therefore, if your gutters are damaged, replace or repair them right away. In addition, shiny granules in your gutters signify the erosion of your shingles.

c. Stains on Walls and Ceiling

Stains on the ceilings and walls come as a result of a leaking roof. It’s important to address these problems before they worsen.

d. Warped Rafters in the Attic

Rafters can help you identify a roof issue that needs your attention. Rafters are key structural components that support the weight of your roof. If they appear wet or warped, schedule an inspection right away.

e. Signs of Moisture in the Attic

Homeowners should check the condition of the attic, even if the roof appears to be intact. Some of the main signs of moisture in the attic include clammy or damp feeling.

f. Visible Shingle Damage

Look for cracked, curled, or missing shingles. Cracks on the surface signify that the shingle is structurally weak.

How Much Do Roof Inspections Cost?

On average, a professional roof inspection costs around $210 (£160). However, the price tag can range from $75 (£57) to $800 (£612), depending on the design of the roof, the type of roofing materials, and the extent of the inspection. Below are different types of roof inspections and their costs.

i. Drone Roof Inspection

A drone roof inspection is the best when there is too much risk of climbing onto the roof. This type of inspection occurs when the roof is very steep. Approximately, drone roof inspection costs around $150 (£114) to $400 (£306).

ii. Physical Roof Inspection

This type of inspection consists of someone climbing onto your roof to perform the inspection. It is the simplest form of inspection, and it costs $75 (£57) to $200 (£153).

iii. Infrared Roof Inspection

Infrared inspection is used to identify some damages that are not visible to the naked eye. It costs around $400 (£306) to $600 (£459).

Why Get a Roof Inspection?

There are numerous reasons to inspect your roof. Some of these reasons include:

* Routine Maintenance Damage

Improper roof maintenance can increase the risks of damage, especially when tradespeople are repairing air conditioners and other systems. A routine inspection incorporates roof cleaning to ensure the roof is free from debris and other contaminants.

* Weathering and Aging

Roofs have a life span of at least 15 years depending on factors, such as weather conditions, etc. All types of roofs undergo normal aging and weathering. Aging roofs can lead to water infiltration; therefore, it’s important to invest in a roof inspector.

* Ensure Proper Drainage

Roof inspectors will improve the functioning ability of your gutters, thus preventing the damaging effect of stagnant water.

* Detect Leaks

Water damage creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold. Reputable roof inspectors will detect small holes in your roof and repair them.

What Happens if the Roof Fails the Inspections

Once your roofing contractor gives you the scope, you can either offer the buyer a credit for the repairs or fix the roof. It is essential to understand the severity of the issue before choosing the best course of action. Mostly, repairing the roof is less expensive than forking over credit to potential buyers.

Roof Inspections Before Purchasing a House

Property sellers and buyers are recommended to carry out a professional roof inspection and provide a roof certification before sealing the deal. Therefore, consider hiring the right roof inspector to ensure that the gutters, leaks, shingles, roof tiles, damages, and construction are inspected thoroughly.

Conclusion

A roof inspection is an essential home maintenance practice that can increase your home’s longevity. In addition, a routine inspection will lower your maintenance costs, especially during the long run. Contact Stourbridge Roofing Pro’s today for a roof inspection.