Why is Inspecting your roof important?

You think you already know the answer. You think you know why inspecting your roof is important and you think I am only referring to roof inspections before you buy a home. Well, slow down, because this article might surprise you.

Of course the obvious answer to this question is that you need to know what kind of condition a home’s roof is in before you purchase the home. Replacing a roof is a substantial expense. Most people want a heads-up if that kind of expense is in their near future.

In our home inspections we inspect the roof for that reason, but that’s not what this article is about. We want to revise the importance of why you should be inspecting your roof annually. Roof inspections aren’t just for when you want to buy or sell a home. Roof inspections should be part of your annual checklist, and here’s why:

The Humidity

The humidity, especially the high levels in Florida, can promote algae, leaks, mold and more. In some cases algae or moss can get under the shingles and lift them up! Creating quite a bit of damage that you never knew was happening. Algae also eats away at the natural limestone in shingles, decreasing their weatherproofing properties.

Severe Weather

As we are in the middle of hurricane season, this is especially important. A severe thunderstorm, tropical storm, or hurricane can significantly damage a roof. High winds can lift up shingles or even blow them off. Even stronger winds can break the sealant bonds. Gutter and downspout runoff from severe storms can cause erosion of the mineral granules, leaks, algae, mold, and side walls may be damaged.

Small Problems Equal Bigger Problems

The issues we’ve listed may seem small but the truth is these small issues will lead to much bigger issues if they aren’t addressed. Loose shingles can lead to roof leaks, which lead to mold and damage inside your home, which can lead to much bigger expenses. Catching and treating the problem the sooner the better, and it will decrease your chances of having much bigger issues.

At Divinity Home Inspection, we don’t have to inspect your whole house. We offer roof inspections, pool inspections, and other a la’ carte services to fit your needs. See our prices on our site or call us to set up an appointment.

Why Is Inspecting Your Roof Important?

Roof inspections are vital for ensuring your home’s safety. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. So, regular inspections ensure it remains in good condition. However, many homeowners lack an understanding of how roof inspections are beneficial.

What Is a Roof Inspection?

Roof inspections involve a thorough assessment of a roof’s condition. Afterward, the inspector provides a report documenting any minor or significant issues you must address. The inspector will also offer additional information on necessary repairs.

What Do Roofing Inspections Involve?

Roof inspections begin with an examination of all aspects of the roof system. There is a list of exterior and interior assessments. The inspector checks each roof component and looks at the workmanship quality. This will determine how well the roof will perform and age.

Exterior

The inspector will check for the following on an exterior roof inspection:

● Condition of the shingles (i.e., cracking, curling, flat)

● Chimneys

● Flashing

● Gutters and downspouts

● Signs of deck damage, rot, or unevenness

● Mold or algae growth

Interior

The interior assessments include:

● Attic ventilation- effective ventilation system prevents condensation buildup in the attic)

● Check insulation for water damage

● Search for water damage or dark spots on the roof decks’ underside. Dark spots may indicate mold growth.

Why Do You Need Roof Inspections?

Roof inspections are one of the most crucial parts of a home inspection. It is one of the biggest concerns for prospective homebuyers and sellers.

The following are reasons why inspecting your roof is important:

Detects Problems

Having regular roof inspections is vital for detecting issues. Minor problems that are not obvious may become extensive. More so, they help homebuyers or sellers determine whether there were improper repairs. Those ineffective repairs could lead to bigger problems. For instance, a poor job fixing a roof leak can damage the home’s interior.

Reveals Hidden Issues

Inspections also reveal issues hidden underneath the surface. Many homeowners fail to see these problems until they are visible. However, it doesn’t mean there isn’t underlying damage. For example, your roof’s underlying structure may be rotting. You will likely be unaware of it until after a roof inspection.

Extends Roof Lifespan

Roof inspections are crucial for extending a roof’s lifespan. They alert homeowners about potential problems that regular maintenance and repairs can address. As a result, the repairs can extend the life of your roof, delaying a costly replacement.

Prevents Costly Repairs

Besides increasing your roof’s lifespan, inspections identify minor issues early on. Resolving the concerns can prevent expensive future repairs. For example, a small leak can cause water damage, leading to mold growth and structural issues.

Maintains Energy Efficiency

Identifying issues like damaged insulation and leaks allows air to escape. In return, you will rely on your HVAC system more. With greater AC use, you will have higher energy bills. However, inspections ensure a well-maintained roof and optimize your home’s energy consumption.

Ensures Safety

With a damaged roof, your safety may be at risk. For instance, mold and mildew

Damaged roofs can pose safety hazards. Weakened structures can cause your roof to cave in, leading to potential accidents. Regular inspections help ensure your roof is safe and secure.

Protects Home Value

Your roof contributes to its overall value. So, a roof that’s in good condition is a major selling point. Having a well-maintained roof can protect its value and improve its appearance.

Informs Buyers and Sellers

One key benefit of roof inspections is that the buyer and seller will know the truth about the roof’s condition. Purchasing a home with knowledge of the issues allows the buyer to renegotiate the home’s value.

Compliance with Insurance Requirements

Depending on the home insurance policy, they may require regular roof inspections. Keeping up with inspections demonstrates your compliance with the policy. This will show that you are not liable when filing a damage claim.

Prepares Your Home for Severe Weather

Keeping up with roof inspections will help uncover roof damage from severe weather. If you live in an area with frequent hurricanes, roof inspections will be essential for identifying problems. Being able to make repairs will better prepare your home and roof for future storms.

Prevents Health Hazards

One of the risks of roof damage is leaks. Hidden leaks can breed mold and mildew in your roof’s underlying structure and your home’s interior. Mold exposure can result in serious health issues, such as asthma, allergies, and infections. Finding the source with roof inspections will prevent health hazards. However, regular inspections help to address the problems early on.

When Should You Get a Roof Inspection?

Experts recommend having your roof inspected at least 1 to 2 times per year.

However, here are other times you should have your roof assessed, which include:

● Buying a home

● Selling a home

● Noticing signs of roof damage

● After severe weather

If you live in an area with harsh weather, you should inspect your roof before and after storms and between seasons. This will help you better determine your roof’s maintenance and repair needs.

Contact Divinity Inspection Service for a Roof Inspection!

Learning why inspecting your roof is important will help you make the best decisions for your home. When you need home inspection experts, consult Divinity Inspection Service. Our professional team consists of retired contractors and inspectors with over 20 years of experience.

More so, we ensure that all our inspectors receive rigorous training. This training allows our team to perform home inspections at the highest level. We can meet all your needs with our most comprehensive inspection services in Tampa Bay, Florida.

We specialize in the following types of inspections:

● Home Buyers

● Home Sellers

● New Construction

● Renovation

● Home Energy Efficiency

● Electrical Panel and Wiring

● Wind Mitigation

● Pool Leak Detection

Contact us today for an inspection appointment!

Sources:
https://www.veteransunited.com/futurehomeowners/why-roof-inspections-are-so-important/
https://danvers.wickedlocal.com/news/20160915/at-home-with-stephanie-importance-of-roof-inspections

Originally Published  Sep 21, 2016