What Do Roofers Look for During an Inspection?

After a major storm blows through, it’s only natural to wonder if your roof has sustained any damage. A roof is a home’s first line of defense against the weather, so taking the proactive steps of checking for attic leaks and visually inspecting your roof from the ground can be helpful—if you know what to look for, that is. Many homeowners will be able to spot the most obvious roofing problems, such as curled or missing shingles, but finding other issues usually requires the trained eye of a roofing contractor. A contractor’s roofers will be able to tell if roofing problems are signs of more serious damage. If you suspect that your roof has been compromised, it’s best to seek professional roofing advice.

What to Expect

A professional roof inspection typically involves a detailed evaluation of four general aspects: structure, materials, interiors, and workmanship.

• Structure – Roofers will look for signs of sagging or uneven roof planes. Additionally, they will examine the condition of your soffit, fascia, and gutters. You may not consider gutters part of the roof, but when they fail to drain properly, water can collect under the shingles and weaken your roofing system, leading to mold growth and even leaks.
• Materials – There are a number of problems that can indicate your roof is past its prime. These include cracked, loose, or missing shingles; black or greenish stains and streaks, and worn flashing around features like dormers, vents, chimneys, and skylights. Flashing acts as a sealer between the joints of a roof, so a roof that lacks proper flashing is more susceptible to leaks and water damage.
• Interiors – A roof inspector will check your attic, ceilings, and interior walls for leaks or any signs of damage due to moisture, including mold, rot, and discoloration. Any of these can be red flags that water is making its way into your home.
• Workmanship – As with any home improvement, flawed workmanship can result in a roof that performs poorly. Badly installed shingles or incorrect flashing where two surfaces meet are definite causes for concern.

After the Inspection

Your roofing contractor should present you with details about the condition of your roof. Your contractor should also advise you on whether a full roof replacement, rather than repair, is better and more cost-effective. Of course, whichever option you choose, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible. With your roofing system in weathertight shape, you’ll have peace of mind when the next storm rolls in.

Help from Roofing Experts

At Alure Home Improvements, we understand that a roof is not only an essential feature of your home’s appearance, but it’s also critical protection for your household and belongings. That’s why we put an emphasis on providing thorough roof inspections. Our roofing professionals know that for a roofing system to provide weathertight performance, shingles, vents, underlayment, and gutters must all work together. We can tell you if your roofing system is performing as effectively as it should. If we determine that a roof replacement is in order, our team of exterior designers can help you choose the roofing color and style that will complement your home wonderfully and protect it long into the future. Contact us today to learn more about why we are the roofing contractor of choice on Long Island.