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10 Crucial Things Contractors Must Check During a Roof Inspection

January 3, 2024

Are leaks beginning to dampen your roof? Feeling overwhelmed by the thought? Let us ease your concerns.

Experiencing roofing issues can be a significant source of anxiety. However, the extent of the problem often remains unclear until a professional roofing contractor conducts a thorough inspection.

The necessity might range from minor repairs to an entire roof overhaul. At Top Quality Remodeling & Restoration, we're committed to resolving your roofing troubles.

With a legacy of exceptional roofing services dating back to 1992 for the Abingdon, MD community, TQRR approaches every inspection with meticulous care, ensuring you can rest easy about the state of your roof.

Fixing a leaky roof or replacing the whole thing starts with a detailed checkup, like taking your car to the mechanic. A roofing pro will climb up and examine every inch, from the shingles and flashing to the hidden spaces under your roof and how air flows in and out. This thorough inspection gives them a clear picture of what's going on and what you need to get your roof back in tip-top shape!

For a deeper understanding, we present the 10 critical checkpoints a roofing contractor should assess during an inspection.

1. The Ventilation in Your Attic

Upon arrival, a quality roofing contractor's initial check should be the ventilation in your attic. This is to verify that there's adequate airflow, allowing your attic space to 'breathe' effectively.

Inadequate ventilation in your attic can lead to significant roofing issues. The accumulation of hot or cold air can severely reduce the longevity of your roof.

The importance of proper attic ventilation to the health of your roof and overall home cannot be emphasized enough. For more insight, consider reading our article on the impact of proper attic ventilation on your roof and home.

2. Can You See Any Leaks or Stains from Water Inside?

Clearly, a primary concern for your roofing contractor will be spotting any leaks that are causing water stains on your ceilings. Identifying a leak is the first step; the next is to pinpoint its source.

Upon locating the issue, your contractor will assess whether simple repairs will suffice or, in cases of more significant damage, suggest a roof replacement.

3. Determining the Number of Roof Layers

Upon accessing your roof, the contractor will determine the number of existing roofing layers. Should a replacement be necessary due to severe issues, they will need to strip off the current roof and any additional layers.

The presence of multiple layers will be factored into your roof replacement quote, specifying the extent of material to be removed.

4. Assessing Your Roof's Decking Condition

As your contractor examines your roof, they will pay close attention to the decking's condition. They'll evaluate its stability, feeling for any softness or firmness underfoot.

Additionally, they'll inspect the nails in the decking to ensure they're secure. It's important to note that a contractor might not be able to fully gauge the decking's condition merely by walking on it.

Often, a more accurate assessment can only be made once the shingles are removed. Should they find the decking's integrity compromised, it will be necessary to replace that particular section during the roof replacement.

5. Inspecting Your Roof Vents

It's essential to inspect all types of vents on your roof.

Whether you have gable, soffit, or ridge vents, each needs to be examined for any blockages. Additionally, if your home utilizes a gas appliance, the inspection will include checking whether the metal's expansion and contraction have loosened any fasteners on the gas vent.

6. Examining Your Roof Shingles

Proper installation of roof shingles is vital, second only to ensuring adequate attic ventilation for the longevity of your roof. Incorrectly installed shingles can significantly reduce their lifespan.

In the course of the inspection, the condition of the shingles will be thoroughly assessed. This includes checking for improperly driven nails that create bumps, nails that have come loose, or other more apparent issues such as missing, loose, cracked, blistering, or buckling shingles.

Understanding when it's time for a roof replacement is key to maintaining your home's integrity.

7. Inspecting Your Roof's Penetrations and Skylights

Roof penetrations refer to any elements that protrude through your roof. During an inspection, your roofing contractor will closely examine all these penetrations, as well as any skylights, to verify they are effectively preventing leaks.

For instance, roof pipes often have neoprene boots designed to stop water from seeping into your home. Over time, these boots may crack and potentially lead to leaks if not addressed.

Regular roof inspections are critical to maintaining a leak-free roof. For a deeper understanding of how routine maintenance can extend your roof's life, consider exploring our article on the significance of proper roof upkeep.

8. Evaluating Your Chimney

While technically a type of roof penetration, your chimney requires special attention during an inspection, warranting its separate section. A roofing contractor will assess various aspects such as the flashing, the state of the mortar, and the chimney cap's condition.

The presence of growth from the mortar indicates moisture infiltration in your chimney. It's important to note that while a roofing contractor can identify and address many issues, certain chimney repairs might necessitate the expertise of a specialized chimney repair service.

9. Examining Your Roof Flashing

During the inspection, your contractor will meticulously examine the roof flashing. This is the metal installed wherever your shingles meet another structure, like walls, chimneys, or open valleys.

The inspector will verify that the flashing is free from rust and confirm that the metal remains robust enough to withstand the elements and maintain a dry interior.

10. Inspecting Your Gutters

A thorough inspection by your roofing contractor will include a close look at your gutters and downspouts.

Initially, they'll assess their overall condition, ensuring there are no cracks or gaps. Next, they'll search for any obstructions or signs of impeded flow that might lead to the accumulation of debris or vegetation.

The presence of standing water will also be checked; this indicates that the gutters may be improperly angled. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your gutters are vital components of overall roof care.

Choose a Trusted Roofing Expert

Understanding what goes into a roof inspection equips you to engage a trusted, local roofing expert. A reputable contractor will provide a fair and accurate evaluation of your roof's condition.

Wondering how to identify a reliable roofing contractor? The key lies in asking insightful questions and receiving clear, informative responses.

We're committed to helping every homeowner secure the best roofing services available. That's why we'll share essential questions to pose to your prospective roofing contractor.

At Top Quality Remodeling & Restoration, we've been addressing the diverse roofing requirements of Baltimore residents since 1992. Our comprehensive inspections are designed to be meticulous, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Our goal is to offer you complete assurance in our services.

Top Quality Remodeling & Restoration

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