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How Long Does A Roof Inspection Take? (Guide For Homeowners)

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There’s one thing most homeowners do that is very detrimental to their roof, and that is not getting regular inspections. It’s pretty common for someone not to get a roof inspection unless there’s visible damage or issues with the roof. But the reality is that getting regular roof inspections each year can help catch and repair roof damage early and prolong the life of your roof.

Reasons why people might not get roof inspection:

  1. They don’t think they need one.
  2. They don’t have the time or money.
  3. They aren’t doing regular maintenance on their roof, either.

So how long does a roof inspection take, and what can you expect from one? We’ll answer both of these questions, plus list all of the benefits of getting inspections, whether your roof is damaged or not.

Reasons to Get a Roof Inspection

First off, if you notice any of the following signs of roof damage, you should get an inspection right away so the pros can inspect, diagnose, and repair any damage they find as soon as possible. Signs of roof damage include:

  • Leaks in the attic
  • Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
  • Bald spots on shingles
  • Shingle granules in the gutters
  • Water stains on the ceiling or walls
  • Leaky or clogged gutters
  • Signs of mold or mildew in the attic

Now, most people get a roof inspection when they’re already having issues with their roof, like the ones mentioned above. But there are plenty of reasons to get one, even if everything seems fine.

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Catching Problems Early

Many roofing problems start small and only get worse over time. By the time you notice them, the damage might be extensive and expensive to fix. An inspection can catch these problems early, when they’re still small and easy to fix.

Preventing Further Damage

If there are already problems with your roof, an inspection can help prevent further damage. The sooner you catch the problem, the less chance there is of it causing more damage.

Helping You Plan for the Future

A roof inspection can also help you plan for the future. If your roof is nearing the end of its life, an inspection can help you budget for a new roof. And if your roof is in good shape, an inspection can give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to replace it anytime soon.

How Often Should You Get Your Roof Inspected?

A good rule of thumb is to get your roof professional inspected after any severe either event and at least once a year. However, conducting thorough DIY inspections can also be a form of regular roof maintenance and mitigate damage by noting any changes in your roof from the last time. Some tips for DIY roof inspections:

  • Check the roof for large debris, leaves, algae, or moss growth
  • Look for loose, missing, dented, cracked, or curling shingles
  • Check the interior of your attic for signs of water or air leaks
  • If it’s safe, get up on a ladder and check the roof/gutters more closely
  • Ensure your gutters are free and clear with no dents or gaps

When you do your inspection, jot down anything out-of-the-ordinary and take photos if necessary. This can come in very handy if you have any underlying leaks; you can note if stains or dark spots grow or turn up since your last inspection.

How Long Does a Roof Inspection Take?

The roof inspection process usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour. The roof inspector will do a thorough examination to diagnose and come up with an estimate of repairs, if applicable. Some things you can expect during a roof inspection will include an exterior and an interior inspection, plus a potential discussion about the age of your roof, anything you’ve noticed, and what you want to do regarding roof repairs.

Interior Roof Inspection

Roof inspectors will need access to your home’s attic space to check for some vital signs of roof deterioration, water leaks, or trapped moisture. They’ll look for:

  • Proper attic ventilation and insulation
  • Flat insulation that could indicate water leaks
  • Mold or water damage on the wood or plywood
  • Signs of light shining through the boards of the attic ceiling
  • Signs of any pests or rodents
  • Any air drafts
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Exterior Roof Inspection

On the outside, they’ll look for many things, including:

  • The gutters drainage and if there’s any leaks
  • The soffits, fascia, and eaves— these are prime areas for rodents to enter and nest
  • Debris and moisture buildup in the valleys and along flashing
  • Missing, curling, or damaged shingles
  • Cracks or dents in the roofing components (vents, flashing, boots, etc)
  • They’ll check for any sagging or large areas of discoloration

Questions You’ll Get Asked

Be prepared to answer some of the following questions from your roofing contractor:

  1. How old is your roof? If you don’t know, they might be able to help you figure it out.
  2. When was your last roof inspection?
  3. Is your roof under warranty?
  4. Have you noticed any increase in your energy or heating bills?
  5. Do you experience ice dams in the winter?

These can all be very helpful in determining the condition of your roof, if you require any repairs or replacement, and to ensure you get the coverage you need to make those necessary repairs, if applicable.

Where to Get a Proper Roof Inspection?

The best thing you can do to get a thorough, fast inspection is to find a local reputable contractor. Choose roofers who have great reviews, solid testimonials, and a catalog of amazing work to show.At Bay Valley Roofing, quality is our standard, and we believe every homeowner deserves the best roof possible. When you’re struggling to maintain your existing roof or are looking for a better solution with a roof replacement, our team can help you get there. Reach out to us today to get started.

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