Roof Inspection

Roof inspections should occur regularly as they enable you to identify and fix small issues and problems before they become bigger (and more expensive).

What does a roof inspection look like from a roof inspector? While an interior roof inspection includes checking the attic for proper insulation and ventilation, as well as moisture and mold, an exterior inspection includes climbing up on the roof and checking for leaks and proper flashing, as well as the condition of your shingles and chimney.

The best way to keep a roof looking its best for the longest is with an annual roof maintenance inspection. It’s also the best way to avoid leaks that can lead to expensive interior repairs. And if you’ve just moved into a home with a slate roof, an inspection often reveals that a damaged roof can be repaired rather than replaced by a roof specialist .
 

The best time for an inspection is either in the fall to prepare for harsh winter weather or in the spring to clean up from the severe winter weather.
 

You may be tempted to make those inspections yourself, but it’s always best to leave it to the professionals. Plus, depending on the height and pitch of your roof, trying to inspect your roof can be dangerous for someone who isn’t accustomed to climbing around on rooftops.
 

That doesn’t mean that you can’t keep an eye on your roof between inspections. Here are a few steps you can take to help ensure the durability and beauty of your slate, clay, metal, or asphalt shingle roof without risking damage to your roof or yourself. If you spot anything that looks amiss, roofing contractor as quickly as possible. 

Despite its durability, you’re bound to have a broken or slipped slate occasionally especially if your home is surrounded by large, mature trees or there’s been a nasty storm. Individual slates can either be repaired or replaced. 

During a clay tile roof inspection, you'll want to take note of the color of your tiles. Look for staining on your roof tiles, as they're a good indication that something is wrong with the tile. Look for white staining on any of the tiles. 

For best results, you might want to inspect and clean a metal roof about once a year, although deep cleaning isn't required every year with most metal roofs. Since they have high-performing qualities, they're very low maintenance. We usually recommend deep cleaning your roof every 2-3 years, depending on your environment, to ensure it looks its best. Even though you can maintain a metal roof on your own, it may be helpful to hire a professional, so you don't have to climb onto your roof.

An asphalt shingle roof needs professional inspection about every three years. Check for granules of the shingles in the gutters and drainage system.

You may be surprised to learn that the flashing and gutters are very important, vulnerable parts of a roof, so keeping them maintained is important to keeping your roof in good shape.

Flashing is a thin, weatherproof material such as copper or galvanized steel that is used around windows, doors, gutters, chimneys or any exterior joint. The purpose of flashing is to keep water from getting under your tiles. 

Although copper flashings are initially more expensive than galvanized, they also typically last about 70 years compared to galvanized flashings that usually last fifteen to twenty years and require regular painting. 

The purpose of gutters and downspouts is to direct water away from your home. There are two types of gutters – box gutters are built into the rafter of your roof, and hanging gutters are attached to the eaves of your home. We check to make sure there are no holes or blockages (like leaves and branches) in your gutters and downspouts and that the seams are still intact.

Sheathing is the wood panels or sheet material that is fastened to your roof rafters. The tiles are laid on top of the sheathing, so it’s important that the sheathing can withstand the weight of your roof and last as long as your roof.

Don’t forget about your chimney! The masonry, the flashing, and the cap or flue covers need to be checked. If any of these are damaged, it can lead to leaks inside your home.

Whatever material you go with, it’s always a good idea to inspect your interior spaces for signs of a leak, especially after a long period of rain, look for cracked tiles or tiles that look like they’re slipping, and check for fallen tiles around the perimeter of your home.

If your roof needs professional inspection, don’t hesitate to call Cootes Farms Roofing. We are ready to ensure your roof gets the care it needs.