When Should You Have Your Roof Inspected

 

When bad weather hits, your roof can take major damage and even cause damage to the interior of your home. It is recommended to regularly have a roof inspection to assess any issues that might cause damage down the line, but many Americans are unsure of how often their roof should be inspected.

How often should my roof be inspected?

It is recommended to have your roof inspected once a year. You can also do self-checks to determine if you need any roofing services. Spring and fall tend to have the worst weather of all of the seasons, so it’s recommended to have your roof inspected by a professional during those two seasons.

While it is possible to do a full roof inspection yourself, the process is very difficult. If you don’t catch a potential issue that a professional would catch, you should seek someone who has more expertise and experience. They know how to address any issues with your roof and have the knowledge of how to fix them.

Reasons to get a roof inspection

You might believe your roof is fine and will protect your house from bad weather, but there are signs people don’t acknowledge that can lead to severe damage. If you haven’t had your roof inspected annually, here are some signs that you might need a roof inspection:

• The roof has been damaged by storms
  Your roof can be severely damaged by heavy rain, high winds, and hail. After a big weather event, make sure you check your roof at the earliest opportunity. Even if you don’t have any major issues with your roof, there can still be loose shingles or leaks that could damage the interior of the home. You don’t want your roof damage to also lead to floor damage or harm to yourself. Of course, if you notice any glaring damage, such as a missing shingle or gap in the roof, have it inspected as soon as possible.
  
  Homeowner’s insurance might help cover some of the damages, so you’ll want to have a roof inspection as soon as possible following a storm. Also, make sure to take photos of the roof damage after a storm to use as proof of damage when filing the insurance claim.

• The roof is aging
  As you might expect, roofs get weaker over time. After several years of dealing with harsh weather, your roof will need repairing. Ignoring the roof’s age can lead to many other significant issues. You don’t want to deal with a major leak due to the roof’s age. If your roof hasn’t been replaced in roughly 20 years, it might be time to replace it. A roof inspection will allow you to know for sure whether it’s time for replacement or repair.

• The roof is a safety hazard
  If your roof is deteriorating, it can become a safety hazard. The roof could fall apart, damaging the rest of the house. If you notice a small hole in your roof, have it inspected for your safety.

• The roof has vegetation damage
  If your roof and gutters aren’t cleaned properly and regularly, this can cause vegetation to grow. Gutters accumulate dirt, seed, and moisture, which leads to vegetation growth. Birds land on roofs and deposit seeds which can also help promote vegetation growth. When the weather is windy, tree branches can scrape against your roof, which can significantly damage it. When your roof has been damaged by vegetation, the roots can penetrate the roof and create a leak. It is recommended to have someone clear out the debris from your gutters and trim any tree branches that could be problematic.

• The roof has poor drainage
  If your roof isn’t able to efficiently drain water, the standing water can damage your roof and potentially leak. Debris, such as leaves, trash, or thrown objects can clog your roof drain. Having these drains regularly cleaned allows water to properly flush and prevents any severe leaks. Additionally, standing water can quickly deteriorate your roofing materials, which could lead to more problems down the line.

• You never had a roof inspection
  If you know you’ve never had a roof inspection and are unsure if you need one, this is a great time to get one. Whether you just moved in or have been living in the same house for five years, it might be a good time to have your roof inspected. If you just recently moved into a new home, consider having the roof inspected in case there is any damage leftover from the previous owners. If you’ve been living in the same home for over a decade and don’t remember having a roof inspection, consider scheduling one.
  
  While some people like to repair their roofs on their own, a qualified roof inspector can use their expertise and experience to ensure your roof is both safe and sturdy. Some methods, such as tarps, might help temporarily, but they’re not permanent solutions.

• You’re buying or selling a home
  A new roof increases the home’s value, so if you’re considering moving, have a roof inspection performed as soon as you can. In certain cases, the price of a new roof can be paid for by the house’s new value. By fixing a damaged or aging roof, your house will become more marketable and allows potential buyers to be more confident in the house they’re buying. By having proper documentation of the inspection and photos of the roof showing it’s in great condition, buyers will be more likely to move forward with their purchase.
  
  For buyers, consider getting a roof inspection if the seller did not provide any documentation regarding the roof. Usually, home warranties will cover home repairs within the first year.

How to have your roof inspected

DIY roof inspections are still worth considering, but it’s also easy to miss smaller issues that could lead to major ones. If you believe it’s time for your roof to be inspected for any concerns, such as damage, Mr. Roof can help. Mr. Roof has helped over 400,000 customers with several different roofing services and inspections. We will help you with your concerns and be finished within a day. Contact us today for a free estimate.