A roofing inspection should include interior and exterior checks. For the interior, the contractor verifies proper insulation levels, ventilation and looks for any signs of moisture and mold. For the exterior portion, the contractor will get up on the roof and look for leaks and proper flashing and check the condition of the shingles and chimney. Upon completion of the inspection, the contractor can provide detailed recommendations of any necessary repair and estimate of the cost. The priorities during an inspection vary according to the roofing materials involved. For a shingle roof, the most common troubleshooting involves:
- Indications of water damage – A number of concerns can lead to water damage, including clogged gutters preventing water from draining properly and water seeping in because of improperly installed or damaged flashing and storms that have blown shingles off.
- Mold – Excessive water damage frequently results in mold growth around the chimney and on attic insulation.
- Clogged gutters – An excessive amount of loose shingle granules located in the gutters is an indication of wear and tear on the shingles. Granules add weight to the shingles and protect against ultraviolet rays.
- Shingle deterioration – Rotting shingles, missing or loose shingles and algae growth on the shingles are a concern.
For a metal roof, the focus is also on leaks and the reason for them. During an inspection of a metal roof, professionals will play close attention to:
- Separated seems – Weather changes cause metal roofs to expand and contract. This can result in screws loosening and seams coming apart. If not resolved, the roof’s underlying structure is exposed to damage caused by condensation and the buildup of water.
- Rust – Rust is the enemy of your metal roof, leading to large holes that allow water to leak into the home and destroy roofing panels.
- Damaged flashing – If flashing is allowed to pull apart, a gap is created where water can seep underneath the metal roof and result in corrosion on the underside of the panels.