The key to avoiding unnecessary, costly, and preventable roof repair is getting regular inspections done. Although regular examinations may seem irrelevant when there is no obvious damage to be seen, there are many issues that can affect a roof in very unexpected ways. When performed by experienced roof services, routine inspections help homeowners to protect the investment in their roof and their entire house.
Why Get Regular Roof Inspections?
The main reason why all homeowners should have regular roof inspections done by qualified roof services is because most major problems start out as minor issues. As such, these minor details that would go unnoticed by the homeowner frequently end up causing more extensive damage over time.
Small concerns like loose flashing, loss of granules on shingles, and poor ventilation may not be obvious signals that roof repair is necessary; however, if left unchecked little problems can progress into serious conditions.
After months, or even years without attention, these minor issues can be costly to homeowners even to the point of requiring a new roof or even repairs to the home structure itself.
What Is Involved In A Roof Inspection?
Every inspection is different based on the type of home and the type of material used. Still, it all involves professional roof services taking a closer look at the housetop, paying particular attention to looking for the most common problems that can result in a need for roof repair. Contractors will determine the condition of the external materials and ensure it is lasting as long as it should be according to the manufacturer. They will then look inside the attic for evidence of hidden problems.
Attic ventilation and gutters are a prime concern when gauging the condition of any roof, as is affected by the placement, sealing, and condition of flashing, vent pipes, and other protrusions. If any concerns are noted, a suggestion for repairs will be made so the problem can be corrected before more serious damage can occur.
When Should Inspections Be Done?
Generally speaking, roof inspections should be routinely performed according to the different materials used. Shingles of various sorts, as well as tile installations, should be inspected every two to three years; metal should be inspected every four to five years. Flat roofs should be inspected regularly every two years no matter what material is used, since they are the most likely to sustain damage or begin leaking.
There are other times when homeowners should arrange for roof services to do an inspection even if it hasn’t been that long. Any time there could be some kind of damage, whether due to a big storm or from branches or other debris falling on the house, an inspection is essential. It is important to have someone take a look to determine whether any damage exists and if any repairs are needed.
The other time when an inspection is usually required is during the sale of a home since most lenders and insurance companies will not work with a buyer unless the whole house - including the roof - has been inspected.
Based on this simple information, it should be easy to understand the importance of and how often routine inspections should be performed by qualified roof services. With regular inspections, homeowners are alerted of existing issues before they become major concerns that require expensive roof repair!
