The Only Roof Inspection Checklist You’ll Need

Roof inspections are often overlooked. They take a lot of effort and preparation, but they’re worth their weight in gold. If you’re able to complete them regularly you’ll not only save yourself financially, but you’ll also protect your home or business.

Why Bother Using A Roof Inspection Checklist?

Your roof can race any number of issues, but being high up as it is, you won’t be regularly keeping an eye on it, nor will you notice should something happen to it. Let’s say a wall began to crack in your lounge. You’d notice that fairly quickly and find a remedy. Your roof could have similar issues but without a roof inspection, you’re going to miss it until it’s too late and major issues begin to arise.

By carrying out regular inspections you’ll be able to avoid roof leaks, clogged drains, and gutters, plus you’ll be able to spot cracks. The cracks tend to occur when there are extreme temperature fluctuations that cause expansion and contraction. It’s difficult to completely protect your roof against the elements, but regular inspections are one great way to help protect it.

The 8-Point Mandatory Roof Inspection Checklist

The following list guides you on what to look out for, where to look for it, and lets you know the type of problems that you might come up against. Before you begin, it is vitally important that you think about safety. Your health and safety are by far the most important thing, and accessing a roof without the proper equipment is asking for trouble.

Taking time to work through these points will ensure that your roof is completely inspected. That said, if you’re ever in doubt, it is far better to call in a professional than it is to have your roof become severely damaged. That could lead to expensive sets of roof repairs.

Carry Out A Roof Inspection

You might be questioning why such a simple step is on this list. It’s really a memory jerker that helps you remember to regularly complete this task. Carrying out inspections is one of the only ways that you can catch issues before they escalate.

Remove Debris

Removing debris covers a lot of bases and has a series of steps within the step itself! Once you’re secure and safe on the roof you should:

Clear leaves, twigs, and branches: Leaves and twigs can accumulate on your roof during the fall season, clogging gutters and drainage systems. This can lead to water pooling on the roof and causing damage to the roofing materials. Clearing this debris allows water to flow freely and protects the roof from damage.

Clear other debris: Trash and other objects should be removed from the roof because they can scratch, puncture, or dent the roofing materials. Taking these items off the roof protects it from potential damage.

Sweep away dirt and dust: Dirt and dust can build up on your roof over time and prevent the roofing materials from effectively reflecting sunlight. This can cause increased heat absorption and roof damage over time. Regular cleaning helps to keep the roof in good condition by removing dirt and dust.

Remove moss and algae: Moss and algae can grow on your roof and cause discoloration, gutter clogging, and roofing material damage. Regular cleaning to remove moss and algae helps to prevent this damage and keep your roof in good condition.

Investigate Pooling Water

Pooling water on a roof can indicate underlying problems that must be addressed. It is critical to investigate any instances of pooling water during a roof inspection in order to identify the source of the problem and take appropriate action to prevent potential water damage to the building.

The first step in investigating pooling water is determining the source of the problem. Clogged gutters, damaged flashing, or improper installation can all contribute to pooling water. By determining the source of the pooling water, you can determine the underlying problem and take immediate action to resolve it.

A properly sloped roof is intended to keep water from pooling. Pooling water can occur if the slope is incorrect or has been compromised. You can identify this problem and take corrective action by inspecting the roof slope.

Inspect Flashing

It is critical to inspect the flashing during a roof inspection to ensure that it is in good condition. Flashing is the material used to seal the joints and seams of a roof so that water does not enter the building.

During the inspection, look for any signs of flashing damage or deterioration. Cracks, holes, and rust spots are common problems to look for. Additionally, ensure that the flashing is properly sealed and that no gaps or separations exist between the flashing and the roof.

If any problems with the flashing are discovered, it is critical to act quickly to repair or replace the flashing in order to prevent water damage to the building.

Investigate If The Field Has Any Cracks

When inspecting, it is essential to look for cracks in the field. The field is the largest expanse of the roof and is prone to cracking due to a variety of factors including aging, weathering, and structural issues.

Examine the field for cracks, such as visible gaps or openings. Water infiltration through cracks in the field can cause extensive damage to the building. If any cracks are discovered, it is critical to act quickly to repair them in order to avoid further damage.

Seek Out Any Terminations in Parapet Walls

These are short walls that extend above the roofline and are vulnerable to damage and deterioration at the points where they meet the roof. Inspect the parapet wall terminations for any signs of problems, such as cracks, gaps, or separations. Water can enter the building due to these issues, causing damage to the roof and interior.

Inspect Edge Detail

The perimeter edges, as well as any eaves, overhangs, and verges, are included in the edge details. You should inspect the edge detail for signs of damage, such as cracks, separations, or other types of wear and tear. Water infiltration can occur as a result of these issues, causing significant damage to the building over time. It is also critical to ensure that any drip edges or flashing are properly installed and functional.

Scrutinize Guttering Including Downspouts

Gutters are designed to collect and direct water away from the roof and building, thereby preventing water damage. Examine the guttering thoroughly for signs of damage such as rust, corrosion, or other types of wear and tear. Furthermore, ensure that the gutters are free of any debris, such as leaves or branches, which can cause blockages and prevent proper water flow.

Check that the downspouts are properly connected and positioned to direct water away from the foundation of the building. Any issues with guttering or downspouts should be addressed immediately to avoid water damage to the building.

When Should You Call In Professionals?

While regular roof inspections can help identify potential problems, there are times when a professional inspector is required. For example, if you notice significant damage to your roof or suspect a major problem, you should contact a professional right away. Leaks or water damage, visible mold or mildew, or a significant increase in energy costs are also indicators that it’s time to hire an inspector. Furthermore, if your roof is older or nearing the end of its useful life, it’s a good idea to have a professional inspect it and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s better to know if it is time to replace your roof.

Key Takeaways

Carrying out regular roof inspections is a great way to keep your roof in prime condition, plus it gives you the opportunity to catch any minor issues before they grow into larger ones. Working your way through this list is a great starting point before you move on to professionals.

• Simply inspecting your roof regularly is a great place to start.
• If you find any damage that isn’t repairable then seek professional advice as soon as you can.

If you’re in need of professional assistance then look no further than Trenton Roofing, it’s easy to schedule an estimate through our website.