Roof Inspections: What to Expect

Whether you are a homeowner or business owner, roof inspections are key to maintaining the integrity of your building. This is especially true in states like Oklahoma where high winds and severe weather are common.

In this post, we’ll give you an overview of what happens during a roof inspection, what to expect, and how roof inspections differ for homes versus businesses. We’ll also let you know how long roof inspections typically take and how you can prepare for one!

What is a Roof Inspection?

Put simply, a roof inspection is a detailed evaluation of your roof’s condition. It’s not just about visible damage, either. Your roof is not just there to keep water out of your building or home. Roofs are entire system of components that directly affect energy efficiency, air circulation, temperature control, and other things about your home or building.

Inspections are performed to verify the safety and good condition of your roof, as well as ensure that your roof is up to building codes and does not require any repairs or maintenance. They can also clue you in on the expected lifespan of your roof.

What Do Roofing Inspectors Look for?

During an inspection, roofing professionals look into several things:

1. Material Condition: This includes checking shingles, metal sheets, tiles, fasteners, etc. for signs of wear and tear. They are looking for things like cracks, loose materials, and rust.
2. Structural Integrity: Inspectors will look for signs of sagging, uneven roof planes, and compromised roofing components. This includes examining gutters, fascia, and soffits.
3. Workmanship: They will evaluate the workmanship of the roof itself to ensure the installation was done correctly.
4. Interior Inspection: In most cases, inspectors will look at the attic, ceilings, and other areas of the building or home, too. This way they can spot signs of mold growth, moisture leaks, or rot.
5. System Condition: For all other parts of the system lily skylights, vents, chimneys, and more, the inspector will ensure these pieces are in proper condition.

Residential Vs. Commercial Roof Inspections

The basic principles of roof inspections are similar, but there are some differences between residential and commercial inspections.

• Design and Materials: Residential roofs are typically sloped and made from shingles, slate, shake, or tiles. Commercial roofs are usually flat TPO systems or metal. These material differences change what the inspector will look for in a roof.
• Inspection Complexity: Commercial roofs, depending on the type of business, may require more intricate inspections for things like complex HVAC systems, smokestacks, external piping, and more. 
• Frequency: Building codes differ for homes versus commercial properties, which can dictate how often you must get an inspection. Commercial buildings typically need more inspections in cases where their roofing system is more complex.

How Long Roof Inspections Last

The length of a roof inspection can vary depending on a few factors and can last anywhere from 45 minutes to a few hours.

In general, larger and more complex roofs take longer to inspect due to the amount of components and large area. You can also expect a roof that it is near the end of its lifespan or in poor condition to take longer. Inspectors will want to cover every aspect of the roof if it is in need of serious repairs or replacement.

How to Prepare for a Roof Inspection

Before your inspection, there are some steps you can take to make the process easier for yourself and the inspector.

1. Ensure Proper Access: Be sure the inspector will have proper access to the roof, attic, and interior of your home or building. You will likely need to be present for the inspection to allow the inspector into these areas.
2. Document Your Concerns: If you are getting an inspection because you suspect your roof is damaged, be sure to keep documents of those concerns and share them with your inspector. This can help them identify issues sooner.
3. Be Safe: While the inspector is present, it is helpful to crate pets and keep them out of your yard, away from the inspection area. You should also keep employees out of the inspector’s way while they are working.
4. Prepare Your Questions: If you have specific concerns, be sure to have those prepared for your inspector so they can help you right then and there.

What Happens After a Roof Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will give you a detailed report of their findings and service recommendations is necessary. You may receive this report immediately after the inspection or by email in the following days.

If there are any immediate concerns, the inspector will discuss those with you and help you get started on getting those repairs with a roofing company.

When Should I Get a Roof Inspection?

You should be getting inspections regularly, but there are a few occasions when inspections may be needed more immediately.

• After a Storm: If your roof has recently endured a good storm and you suspect hail, wind, or water damage, you should get an inspection to spot potential damage early.
• Signs of Damage: You may notice your roof has damage indicators like sagging, missing shingles, or mold growth. Inspections are key to fixing those problems before they escalate.
• If You’ve Never Gotten an Inspection: If you’re buying a home or building or have never gotten your roof inspected before, an inspection is a good idea. This can help you find out the condition of the roof before buying or let you know if any issues have come up since you bought your home or building. 

Roofing Inspections: The Key to Roof Longevity

Regular roof inspections are essential for spotting damage early and preventing future roofing problems. Inspectors can help you better understand your roofing system and any repairs or maintenance it may need.

If you need a roofing inspection, residential or commercial, give us a call at Statewide Roofing. We specialize in commercial and residential roofing services all over the state of Oklahoma. Statewide are your experts when it comes to anything roofing-related. Contact us today to get a free estimate on your roofing needs.