A regular roof inspection is the best way to maintain the integrity and overall condition of your roof. These inspections help uncover issues such as leaks, poor ventilation, damaged roof coverings, and other common roof issues. Identifying these issues early will help to prevent costly roof repairs later, while also ensuring your family’s safety.
Here’s a look at the 7 most common issues a professional roofer may find during a roof inspection.
The benefit of a professional roof inspection is that it gets experienced eyes on your roof. It won’t take your roofer long to uncover any shortcuts that may have been taken by any previously completed roof jobs. Issues such as bent nails, warped flashing, or small protrusions on your roof could all point towards inferior work done previously. Other installation shortcuts can include:
- The use of wrong materials
- Absent drip edges
- Inadequate ventilation
- Poorly aligned roof coverings
2. Roof Leaks & Water Damage
Your roof always needs to provide a watertight barrier, and a roof inspection will identify any failing roof layers that could lead to water leaks. Leaks could result from missing shingles or even blocked flashing channels. Your roofer will also be able to tell a lot by walking and feeling parts of your roof. A roof covering that feels soft or spongy could point towards water damage or even rot. These issues are best detected by regular roof inspections.
Water-Leak Prevention Tip: Keep an eye on your ceiling every so often. Water damage can present on your ceiling in the form of a water stain. These are usually brown and appear over the course of time. Your ceiling should never just develop brown stains without an underlying issue, such as a water leak.
3. Worn Shingle Granules
All asphalt shingles are covered with protective granules. This darkened, sprayed-on layer helps to direct water towards downspouts and gutters while also providing UV protection. How does granule wear occur? Well, over time, your shingles can dry out from ongoing environmental exposure. This can cause them to lose these protective granules. The good news is that an experienced roofer will easily identify worn shingles, mostly by looking for the presence of pebbles in your gutters. Depending on the scale of shingle loss, you may need to invest in a shingle repair or a roof replacement. Other shingles issues, such as blistering or bubbling, are also a sure sign of wear and tear.
4. Gutter System Issues
Gutter maintenance can often be overlooked. These important water channelers should regularly be checked for blockages and cracks, as they help to protect your home’s foundations. A gutter blockage can back up water and cause water to pool for prolonged periods of time. This can result in water seepage and slow leaks. A discerning roofer will also measure the slope of your gutter, ensuring that the water is running downwards and not remaining stagnant. During an inspection, any loose gutters and downspouts will also be securely fastened. Finally, your gutters will receive a thorough clean to remove any debris.
5. Structural Integrity Concerns
Structural inspections get into the nuts and bolts of your roof. Often invisible to the naked eye, your roofer will survey several roof components, including soffit boards, decking, fascia boards, and your roof frame. All of these help to preserve your roof’s structure and integrity. Although hard to see, roof sagging is often a sign of a structural issue.
Living in South Florida means that your roof may be susceptible to some challenging weather conditions. Severe wind and rain can compromise the condition of your roof, and inspections should particularly be prioritized before and after hurricane season.
6. Poor Roof Ventilation
Attic ventilation plays an important role in maintaining the health of your roof. Your roofer will check the condition and quantity of roof vents installed. Both blocked roof vents or insufficient roof vents can lead to moisture buildup and the growth of mold. The prolonged presence of mold in your home can pose serious health risks to you and your family. Additionally, poor ventilation can increase your cooling bill and lead to roof sagging if not addressed.
7. Pests & Tree Damage
A roof can become the perfect nesting place for various pests. From small rodents to termites, pests can cause substantial damage to your roof’s integrity. A professional roofing team will deal with any rodents and also seal up any roof access points where pests may be gaining entry.
It’s also important to look out for tree root damage and penetration. Branches are known to puncture roofs, particularly during storms. Any overhanging branches will be cut back and cleared away. Overhanging branches also provide an easy entry point for pests to get on and off your roof, so removing these will help eliminate your pest problem.
What Will A Roof Inspection Will Cover?
Entrusting your roof into the right hands will lead to a thorough roof assessment, including:
- Roof Deck Inspection
- Leak detection
- Check for Attic Mold & Mildew
- Assess the condition of your flashing & skylights
- Inspect and clean gutters & downspouts
- Check all roof vents
Roof Inspection Professionals In South Florida
At ABC Roofing Corp, we offer comprehensive roof inspections. All extensive range of roofing services are backed up by our experienced team of roofing professionals. Our roofing services include:
- Residential & Commercial Roof Repairs
- Residential & Commercial Roof Replacement
- Roof-A-Cide Treatment
- Silicone Roof Coatings
- Commercial Roofing Repairs
Once we’ve performed a roof inspection, we’ll share our findings and make the appropriate recommendations. If we’re able to confidently repair it, we’ll always present this option before recommending a roof replacement. Call our friendly team today at 954 344 4622 to book your roof inspection today.
