A roof inspection looks at the structure that supports your home. Inspectors will check the soffits, fascia, and rafters for damage or issues that could compromise your home’s safety and security.
The inspection will include visual observations of your roof, but a professional inspector will use a thermal imaging camera for a more thorough review. This allows them to see potential issues that aren’t apparent with the naked eye. Visit Website to learn more.
There are many different types of roofing materials used to cover homes. A roof inspection will include a careful look at the materials to see that they are in good condition and free of damage. The inspector will also check for the correct installation of these materials. Poor workmanship during the original installation or later repairs can lead to problems with the roof down the road.
During the material inspection, the inspector will make sure that there are no missing or damaged shingles, metal plates, clay or slate shingles. They will also examine the flashing underneath these materials for signs of leaks, cracks or moss growth. The inspector will pay special attention to any valleys in the roof where water collects, as these are often weak spots for leaks.
If a home has a chimney, the inspector will check the mortar and caulking around it to ensure that they are in good condition and free from cracks and damage. They will also look at any vent pipes, skylights and media installations to make sure that the penetration seals are in good condition. If the inspector notices any leaks or other problems with these items, they will recommend that they be repaired or replaced.
When the roof inspection is complete, the inspector will carefully walk around the exterior of the roof to make sure that there are no visible problems. They will also go inside the attic space and check the rafters and joists for any evidence of rot or structural problems.
It is possible for a homeowner to inspect their own roof with the proper safety equipment and from the right ladder. However, this can be a dangerous proposition, and it is usually better to leave this type of inspection to the professionals.
When the roof is being inspected from the ground, the inspector will use a thermal imager to locate any areas that are warmer than they should be. This is a great way to identify leaks and other problem spots without having to get up on the roof itself. The inspector will then make note of these areas and report them in their report.
Flashing and Ventilation
When the weather gets bad, water from the roof can seep into vulnerable areas such as joints, edges, valleys, and chimneys or skylights. These areas are often lined with flashing, a thin impermeable metal material, to prevent moisture leaks.
During a roof inspection, a professional will check the condition of the flashing to make sure it is secure and not damaged. A gap in the flashing can allow water to enter and cause rot, mold, or other problems inside the home. The inspector will also examine the chimneys and skylights to make sure they are watertight.
If the roof is covered in shingles, the inspector will look for curling or loose shingles. They will also note any moss or stains that may be present on the shingles. In addition, they will look for shingle granules in the gutters and in the valleys of the roof as well as any signs of water intrusion.
A roof inspection will also include a visual examination of the soffit and fascia. These boards cover the sides of the roof overhangs and are a vital part of a home’s overall protection system. They help keep out water, pests, and sunlight. The inspector will check the soffit and fascia for any signs of damage or rotting, including mold and mildew.
A roof inspection will also include a thermal imaging survey. During this survey, the professional will point a thermal imager at various parts of the roof and note any hot spots that appear as blue against a dark background. Hot spots indicate that the area is warmer than surrounding areas, which could be a sign of a leak or other problem. Once the professional has located all the hot spots, they will compare them with the map they created earlier to find the source of any issues. Whether you have a new or old roof, a regular roof inspection is a smart investment in your home. By catching small problems before they become major, you will extend the life of your roof and save on repair costs in the future.
Attic Space
Your home’s attic space is a critical part of its overall structure. It is where you store belongings and often houses electrical wiring and other components. In addition, the attic is also a good place to add insulation, which can help keep energy bills lower.
If you’re thinking about renovating your attic space, it’s important to have an inspection done first. This is to ensure that the attic can support the weight of any added construction, and that the structure is structurally sound. A contractor will be able to give you a quote for the cost of any work, and they can help you choose the best materials for your renovation.
The inspector will visually examine the attic space for any signs of damage or wear and tear. They will also check for any leaks or water stains. If you notice any signs of a leak or water damage, it’s important to get the problem fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Leaks and Water Stains: Water stains on ceilings or walls are an indication of a roof leak. These are usually caused by worn or damaged shingles, flashing, or other roofing material. If left untreated, these issues can lead to significant interior damage and even mold growth.
Insufficient Insulation: If you have an older roof or insufficient attic insulation, you’ll probably see an increase in your heating and cooling costs. This is due to the fact that heat rises and escapes through the attic and other areas of the home.
Moisture and Mold: Mold, mildew, and moss growing on the roof can indicate excessive moisture in the attic or other areas of the home. These issues can also lead to wood rot, drywall damage, and other structural problems.
In addition to visual observations, an experienced roof inspector will use a thermal imaging camera to check for any hot spots on the roof. This method is effective because it allows the inspector to see where warm air is escaping, which can be an indicator of a roof leak.
Soffit and Fascia
The roof fascia and soffit may seem insignificant when compared to the size of your home’s roofing material, but they are vital components that should be inspected regularly. They’re responsible for a host of important functions, including providing ventilation to your attic, supporting the gutter system, and protecting your home from water damage.
The soffit is found tucked underneath the fascia board, and can either be vented to assist ventilation in your attic space or non-ventilated, depending on your preferences and the style of your home. The soffit boards should be clean, and if they become stained or mildewed, a hose or soft brush with a cleaning solution should be used to remove any dirt and grime.
In many cases, the fascia and soffit can be painted to match or complement your house’s siding color scheme. Some homeowners choose black soffits and fascia, as this adds a stark contrast against lighter exterior paint themes while still keeping your home well-ventilated and preventing issues like mold growth, rotting wood, or other problems caused by poor attic ventilation.
Fascia is the horizontal finishing board that sits at the bottom of your roof edge and closes the gap between the edge of your roof and the outer wall of your home. The fascia can be painted or left unpainted. It’s crucial to keep your fascia in good condition, as a damaged one can cause rotting wood and even leaks into the interior of your home.
Typically, the fascia is made from a timber or wood composite, which can be treated to be weatherproof and resistant to rot, fire, pests, and other environmental elements. However, modern homeowners can opt for a low-maintenance and long-lasting fascia made from materials like aluminum, PVC, or fiber cement, which are also durable and highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insect infestation.
During a roof inspection, your inspector will check the exterior of your soffits and fascia for any visible signs of damage like cracking or warping. They will also look for downspouts and gutters to make sure that they’re clear of obstructions or leakage and that they’re properly channeling rainwater away from your home’s foundation. In the attic, they will inspect for any signs of ventilation problems and check the insulation to ensure it is in good condition.
