No matter what type of building you own, a house, apartment building, or commercial building, it’s recommended that you inspect your roof twice a year. It’s preventive care that could save you significant money over time and protect your investment.
Roofing professionals have the knowledge and experience to identify issues early and the safety equipment to protect themselves. With this in mind, we’ll take a closer look at roof inspections and how often they should be performed.
How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?
Roofing manufacturers and insurance companies recommend inspecting your roof twice a year, in early spring and early fall.
The spring inspection is to check for damage from winter weather, including snow, ice, and high winds. It’s important to clear any debris from the roof and from the gutters and downspouts (or roof drains on flat-roof buildings).
The fall inspection helps ensure your roof is ready to withstand the upcoming winter weather. Check flashings to ensure they are intact, look for signs of roof damage, and, again, clear gutters, downspouts, or rain drains.
Why You Should Inspect Your Roof Twice a Year
Regular inspections are designed to catch potential problems early, before significant damage occurs. This helps keep repair costs low. Issues such as cracked shingles, loose or cracked flashing, or debris buildup can lead to roof leaks, mold or mildew growth, or structural problems if not addressed promptly. Additionally, proactive repairs are less expensive than emergency repairs and major roof replacements.
Inspections help extend your roof’s lifespan and keep your building’s interior dry and safe, protecting your investment in both.
Damage to your roof can also affect your heating and cooling costs. Regularly inspecting it can reduce energy costs.
Some roof warranties require regular inspections by a roofing professional to remain valid. Check your warranty documentation to see if this applies to you.
In addition to twice-yearly roof inspections, you should also inspect after severe weather, including high winds, hail, or storms, and if you notice visible damage, such as leaks, missing shingles, or soft spots on the roof deck. A professional roof inspection is also a good idea before buying or selling a home or commercial building.
What is Covered in a Roof Inspection
It pays to have a professional perform your roof inspections, as they have the experience and expertise to identify potential issues before they cause significant damage.
During a roof inspection, the professional will be looking at the following:
- On the roof – Shingles, tiles, flashings, and gutters. Signs of damage, missing shingles, or cracks in shingles or flashings.
- Inside – Signs of water damage, mold/mildew growth, or water leaks in the attic or ceiling areas.
- Roof structure – Uneven slopes, sagging roof deck, or bowed walls that could signal damage to the structural framework or roof deck.
- Drainage – Clogged gutters, downspouts, or rain drains.
Next Steps
To get started with a professional roof inspection for your home or commercial building:
- Contact the team at New Roofs.
- Schedule an inspection with one of our experts. Good times are early fall and spring, during mild weather, or after extreme weather.
- Go over the inspector’s findings and recommendations. Feel free to ask questions so you understand what needs to be done and why.
- Schedule repairs and maintenance as needed. Retain all records, including inspection reports, repair invoices, and manufacturer’s warranties.