Your roof is always there—sturdy and ready to protect you—until it doesn’t. Waiting until that moment can be costly, so you need to get routine roof inspections to prevent massive repair or replacement bills.

Inspections ensure your roof is in peak condition and free from underlying issues. But before you book an on-site visit, here’s what you need to know:

What is a Roof Inspection?

Most people see a roof and think it’s only there to protect us from the elements. However, roofs also perform insulation, ventilation, and moisture control functions that require maintenance, cleaning, and consistent inspections.

A roof inspection checks the condition of shingles, flashing, and other common areas where roofing issues often appear. It also examines caulking, missing shingles, and signs of penetration.

What Does a Roof Inspection Include?

Roof inspectors examine your roof’s materials, structural integrity, and interior for potential red flags. If any are found, they can determine the cause and offer solutions.

Condition of Materials

Roof inspectors assess the conditions of materials, including shingles, flashing, and fasteners. After harsh weather, shingles can go missing, crack, or curl.

Pipe boots, seals, and vents can also show signs of rotting or mold growth. These issues can easily be fixed but can cause severe damage, even to the roof’s structural integrity, when left unchecked.

Structural Integrity

It’s rare for roofs to fail without warning. However, underlying issues can potentially harm your roof’s structural integrity. Inspectors can check if there are any signs of sagging or unevenness.

Some typical signs of potential damage include ponding, signs of penetration, or prominent poor installation of roofing materials.

Inspectors also check your attic to see if the roof’s interior is adequately ventilated. Remember, moisture can build up and lead to severe issues such as mold, rot, or ice dams (if you live in colder climates).

Roofing Interior Inspection

Interior inspections are essential as they can show clear signs of molding, water stains, or rotting roof materials. Inspectors will often look at your attic, ceilings, and interior walls.

Some of the most overlooked signs of roofing issues that can be seen through interior inspections include pests, beams of light, or holes in walls or ceilings.

When Do You Need a Roof Inspection?

Most roofing professionals recommend an annual inspection. However, there are scenarios when roof inspections are required, such as:

When You’ve Never Done a Roof Inspection

Can’t remember the last time you’ve done a roof inspection? Maybe it’s time to call an inspector.

It’s also recommended to contact a roof inspector if you live in an area with severe weather conditions.

When You’re Buying or Selling a House

Roof repairs can be expensive. If you’re buying a house, you must ensure you won’t spend tens of thousands more on roof repair.

But if you plan on flipping a broken-down house, roof inspections can help you accurately estimate the cost of the home, which can significantly lower the price. Selling the home also requires you to do full-fledged roof inspections.

After a Major Storm

Hail, heavy rain, or strong winds can cause severe damage to your roof. Even slight hail can wear down your roof and eventually cause cracks in the shingles, leading to a leak.

Scheduling a roof inspection after major storms is the best practice. Getting a roof inspection after being hit by extreme weather conditions prevents premature aging of your roof. Storm damage restoration is a key part of long-term roof maintenance, especially if you live somewhere that regularly experiences large storms.

If You Notice Leaks, Signs of Leaking, or Damage

It’s tempting to do a quick patch job on a leak and forget it until it leaks again. But that’s just a band aid solution, at best. Schedule a roof inspection if you see leaks or signs of leaking, such as molds or water stains.

There are also easy-to-spot signs of damage that indicate a much-needed inspection, such as dented siding, missing shingles, or cracks in your roof. Damages like these are immediate red flags that often come with underlying issues.

How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?

According to Forbes, roof inspections can cost between $75 to $600. However, several factors affect the price of roof inspections, such as the type of inspection, what state you live in, the type of roof, and the equipment used by the roofing inspector.

Physical Roof Inspection Costs

Roof inspectors climb your roof and examine it in person. Depending on the roof’s size, slope, and height, this can cost between $75 and $200.

Drone Roof Inspection

A faster and safer way to do roof inspections is to use a drone. A professional flies a drone over your roof and records footage. Then, a roof inspector reviews the footage. The cost varies depending on the company but can range from $150 to $400.

Infrared Roof Inspection

Consider an infrared roof inspection if you want a detailed inspection to detect underlying issues. Roof inspectors can use physical and drone inspections with infrared technology to look for problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye. This inspection costs between $400 and $600 and is often used when selling a home.

Benefits of Routine Roof Inspections

Roof inspections can provide several benefits, especially when filing insurance claims and appraisals. Reports provide a baseline for future checkups on your home’s exterior condition.

Roof inspections can also tell you how long your roof has been in place and when it needs to be replaced.

If your roof is under warranty, homeowners are recommended to inspect it annually to prevent issues that may void the warranty, such as poor maintenance, improper installations, or unprofessional repairs.

What You Should Remember About Roof Inspections

Roof inspections are essential for preventing underlying issues from causing severe damage and costly repairs. Routine inspections can extend the life of your roof and maintain its overall condition, ultimately increasing the value of your home when it comes time to sell.

It is crucial to remember that not all damage may be visible from the ground, which is why hiring a professional roofing contractor for inspections is highly recommended.

  • Roof inspectors check the condition of roofing materials, the roof’s structural integrity, and the interior.
  • Schedule a roof inspection if you’re about to buy or sell a house, have experienced severe weather conditions, or have noticed leaks or damages.
  • Roof inspectors can physically check or use equipment like drones or infrared technology to examine your room.

It’s best to hire professionals if you’re planning a roof inspection. That’s where All County Exteriors come in! Schedule a roof inspection with us today!