There is no replacement for a certified roof inspection to guard your property against leaks and the resulting damage. While owners can get ahead of potential troubles with early detection signs of a roof leak, a professional assessment can be the difference between a long-lasting roof and a significant expense down the road. Ideally, you should schedule an inspection twice a year, at the beginning of Spring and Fall, to help ensure that your roof is in good condition for the coming seasonal changes in weather. Read ahead to learn more about the roof leak inspection process so you can stay informed.
One of the most important things you can do as a homeowner to help prevent damage from a leaking roof is to know the age and history of your roof. Different roofing materials like asphalt shingles versus metal roofing, have different lifespans and require specialized care as they age. Likewise, if you are moving into a previously owned home you may want to find out who has been maintaining the roof so you can keep a history of what repairs and inspections have occurred.
Excellent care starts from the inside out! A quality professional inspection often begins in the attic where your roofer will check to ensure there is proper ventilation. During the summer, hot air can get trapped in an improperly ventilated attic, increasing the overall temperature of the house, and forcing your AC to work harder. During the winter, heat rises, traveling into the cold attic and causing the area to retain moisture, which can in turn, result in mold, mildew, or rot, potentially weakening the integrity of your roof and leads to costly repairs.
Next, they will look for any active signs of leaking that may have occurred. Some of these signs are so obvious that the average homeowner will notice them, such as visible ceiling stains, while others require a more in-depth knowledge of roofing to fully assess. Some of the most common reasons for a roof leak are:
– Pipe boot failure: When the protective roof flashing breaks down around the pips that come up out of your roof, water seeps in through the cracks, causing further damage.
– Wear and tear: Your roof will go through natural wear and tear over time, such as singles losing their asphalt coating or metal roofing becoming dented. This can allow water to settle in worn areas.
– Improper instillation: Poorly installed vents, skylights, and roofing materials will allow water into your roof’s underlying deck, causing mold, mildew, and rot.
– Debris: Broken branches, piled up leaves, and the like will retain water, allowing moisture to work into your roof.
After a full inspection has been carried out, your roofing contractor may provide you with photos of the areas of concern. You will receive feedback regarding what was found, where the roof leaks or water damage is located, and what steps should be taken to repair any issues. Finally comes the estimate, letting you know what it’s going to take as far as time and money to keep your home safe. Your home insurance policy may help cover some of the cost, so it would be a good idea to check with your insurance company ahead of time.