What Really Goes Into a Roof Inspection & What Do Contractors Look For?

Homeowners often don’t realize there is a problem with their roof until a whole patch of shingles is missing or water is pouring into the attic. At S&S Roofing, we don’t want our customers to have to deal with these situations. This is why we recommend roof inspections and why so many different services are included in your roof inspection.

A roof inspection gives an educated, professional roofer a chance to examine your entire roofing system. They’ll spot minor problems before they become major problems. This information allows you to make minor roof repairs and changes that prevent bigger issues down the road. You’ll also get a better idea of how long your current roof will last and when you should start considering a replacement.

So, what do roofers look for during a roof inspection? Here are the key areas and problems they generally focus on.

Shingle Condition

It’s hard to tell your shingles’ condition from the ground. A roofer can climb onto a ladder and even walk across your roof, allowing them to get an up-close look at every shingle. They’ll note any areas where the shingles are lifted, cracked, or losing granules. In some cases, they may recommend having the damaged shingles replaced. If the deterioration is widespread across the roof, they may advise you to start planning for a roof replacement. 

Moisture and Mold in the Attic

Here’s the thing about roof leaks: they usually start small, and you don’t notice them until they get larger. On the other hand, a roofing contractor is unlikely to overlook the early signs of a small leak. Inside your attic, they’ll look for tell-tale signs like spots of mold, a musty odor, or water stains on the underside of the roof deck. If they find a tiny leak, they can fix it before you have lots of water damage.

Leaky Projections

Projections are the parts of your building that project through the roof. A chimney is a projection. So is a sewer vent. Sometimes, the materials which secure these projections to the roof start to deteriorate. This can lead to leaks. Your roofer will check for leaks and deterioration during their inspection. It’s always good to catch these problems before water is able to penetrate the roof deck and cause rot.

Flashing Problems

Flashing is the metal material that roofers place in areas that tend to hold water. Most shingle roofs have flashing in the valleys. You’ll also see flashing wrapped around the base of most chimneys. Unfortunately, flashing can sometimes come unfastened and start peeling away. When it does so, it leaves these parts of the roof vulnerable to water and wind damage. If your roof inspection reveals problems with flashing, you should have them repaired ASAP.

Gutter Care and Quality

Gutters exist to protect your roof. They are meant to direct water off the roof and send it away from your home and foundation. If gutters are clogged, leaking, broken, or otherwise damaged, they cannot do their job well. So, during an inspection, a roofer will look over your gutters and explain how they are performing.

If your roofer finds that your gutters are clogged, they may recommend you clean them more often. Or, they may recommend installing gutter guards. If a gutter has come unfastened or has started to separate at the seams, a roofer can point it out before the damage leads to water accumulation problems.

Moss or Algae Detection

Moss and algae are enemies of shingle roofs. Algae can leave unsightly black streaks down the roof. Moss can quickly accelerate the rate at which your roof deteriorates. The problem with moss and algae is that they often start growing in hidden, shady areas which you can’t see clearly.

Thankfully, a roofer will carefully inspect these areas when they inspect your roof. If they notice moss or algae growth, they can address it before it can spread and cause more damage.

It’s never a bad idea to have your roof inspected. Many homeowners like to have an inspection when they first move in. Others schedule an inspection when their roof is a few years old – just to monitor its condition. Not only will an inspection reveal any minor issues, but it’s a chance to find out how much life your roof has left so you can plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a roofing company to inspect your roof in the Arlington area, contact S & S Roofing, LLC. As a fourth-generation, locally-owned company, we always prioritize our customers’ needs. We’ll take care of your roof as if it were our own.