Sometimes, your roof looks fine from the ground, but your attic still leaks and encourages mold growth. Other times, you might worry that a storm damaged your shingles. Yearly roof inspections catch issues like these, giving you time to set aside money and schedule repairs before your roof experiences major structural damage.
What Are Some Common Roof Issues?
Broken materials are a common issue. When your shingles crack or curl upward, they expose the underlayment, making your roof vulnerable to weather damage. Likewise, flashing protects sensitive areas on your roof and redirects the flow of water. Damaged flashing could invite water into your home or weaken the roof’s structural integrity.
Ideally, your gutters drain water away from the roof to prevent moisture buildup. Clogged or broken gutters lead to standing water, which encourages mold and mildew growth and pest infestations. Leaks become worse because the water has nowhere else to go.
When leaks occur, they gradually weaken the wooden beams until they rot and collapse. This poses a major safety hazard. Roof leaks could also penetrate your insulation, leading to mold growth in your walls. You may notice musty odors and flu-like symptoms among household members.
When Do You Need an Inspection?
We recommend having your roof inspected every one or two years. However, if you’ve experienced severe weather or suspect that your roof has damage, you can schedule an inspection at any time. You will also need an inspection if you’re thinking about selling your house. This allows inspectors to check your roof for hazards and suggest repairs, boosting your property value.
What Happens During an Inspection?
When the inspector arrives, they’ll climb into your roof and check for signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles, broken flashing, torn underlayment and damaged gutters. They’ll review structures on your roof, including vents and chimneys, then look for rotting wood, mold growth, pest infestations and wet patches.
After checking the exterior, they’ll enter your attic or study your ceilings. The inspector looks for leaks, mold growth, sagging ceilings and cracks of light that indicate holes in your roof. Finally, they’ll write a report and discuss their findings. Typically, they recommend repairs, but old or excessively damaged roofs might need replacement.
How Do Inspections Help You Save?
Roof inspections may cost a few hundred dollars up front. However, you’ll get the chance to fix issues before they cause a structural collapse, which costs thousands of dollars in repairs. You’ll also learn about new roofing technology that improves safety and functionality. Plus, maintenance extends your roof’s lifespan, delaying the need to pay for a replacement.
Most homeowners should make inspections part of their yearly routines. Call Pyramid Roofing when you need a roof inspection in Richmond, VA. We’ll send a trained professional who carefully inspects your roof and provides recommendations.
