A roof maintenance inspection is done at regular planned intervals throughout the year. These types of inspections are different from the roof inspection that is required when you’re buying a home or changing homeowners insurance companies.
Because the roof is the home’s first line of defense against the elements, insurance companies require an inspection ahead of a purchase, before they extend coverage to a new client, and after a storm if you’re planning to make a claim for damages.
If the roof fails to do its job, other hazards are likely to occur and pose risks. These dangers include leaks, water damage to the home, and destruction of personal belongings. Insurance companies expect homeowners to perform their own due diligence when it comes to keeping their roof in optimum condition, and that’s where regular maintenance comes in.
Keep reading this blog to learn the importance of regular roof inspections, what to expect from a maintenance visit, and why having a preventative plan matters. To learn more about why insurance companies require roof inspections and what you can do about it, check out this Bankrate article.
The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance Inspections
A roof maintenance inspection is also different from having a roofing company send out a repairman to look at your roof and fix an issue. Repairs for leaks, loose shingles, and other types of damage are usually a one-off task. You discover a problem, you make a call, the problem gets fixed.
To prevent problems, preserve the quality of your roofing system, and extend the life of your roof, you need some kind of regular maintenance plan. With this, you don’t wait until a problem occurs. Your trusted roofing company sends out their licensed professionals to inspect your entire roof at multiple visits throughout the year (or duration of the maintenance plan contract).
At each inspection, the roof is checked for current or potential problems. Depending on the type of plan you purchased, these problems will either be fixed on the spot or you’ll receive an estimate on what it would cost to repair them.
With regular inspections like these, your roof stays in good condition and is able to do its job of protecting your home and property—and the people you love. Additionally, paying the price for a plan is less expensive than allowing the roof to deteriorate over time. If you do that, your repair costs (or the cost to replace the entire roof) could be astronomical in comparison.
Why You Need Regular Roof Maintenance
There’s no avoiding roof repairs. Nothing lasts forever, and the climate in Florida makes for some severe weather conditions that can drastically affect the condition of your roof. Forget the elements for a moment: did you know that HVAC technicians can also damage a roof while working on your air conditioning system?
Some of the more common roof problems include:
- Missing shingles
- Plant or moss growth
- Leak or crack in the roof
- Shingles curling or buckling
- Shingle granules in gutters
- Roof sagging or drooping
Other issues like poor initial installation, errors during previous repairs, improper ventilation or insulation, and excess moisture can also lead to roof damage over time.
If a roofing problem arises, fix it as soon as possible. But remember that regular maintenance inspections will help prevent problems and ultimately save you money.
What to Expect During a Regular Maintenance Visit
Reputable roofing companies will offer comprehensive roof maintenance services, ensuring property owners achieve the maximum lifespan from their roof systems.
Look for maintenance packages that offer clients the flexibility of selecting two to four site visits per year. Make sure the company employs licensed and insured professionals. During each visit, a skilled team member should conduct a meticulous inspection of your roof and supply photographic documentation of its current condition. Depending on the maintenance package, the roofer should also clear debris from the roofing system, collect and dispose of organic material from gutters, and perform minor roof repairs as required.
How to Prepare for a Roof Inspection
There are some things you can do to get the roof ready for inspection, especially if it’s for insurance purposes, making it easier on the inspector to accurately perform their tasks. But you should only do these things if it’s safe to do so, and if these tasks (like cleaning the gutters) aren’t already included in your preventative maintenance package.
- Clear away any debris or foliage from around the roofline. This includes trimming trees that touch the roof or block full access to the roof. A roofer isn’t going to trim your trees or risk their own safety if limbs are blocking portions of the roof. (Hire a tree trimming service for the best results and protection.)
- Gutters that are already cleared out and allow water to flow freely make it easier for an inspector to note any blockage in the system or holistic drainage problems.
- Have a list of concerns ready to provide to your roofer, especially if you’ve already witnessed obvious problems. If possible, know when your roof was first installed, when the last inspection was performed, and any repairs that have been made previously. If you have a chimney, be sure the service you buy includes checking the flashing.
To learn more, and to understand why an inspection before and after a hurricane could be helpful, read this article by BUILD Magazine.
The Difference Between a Roof Inspection and a Roof Certification
One last note: When it comes to insurance for your home, it’s important to note that a “roof inspection” and a “roof certification” are not the same thing. Both are used to determine the roof’s current condition and value, but a certification requires a more detailed inspection and report. For this, the company will consider the following factors:
- Age of the roof
- Number of layers on a roof
- Square footage of the roof
- Type of roofing materials used
- Pitch of the roof
- Quality of previous repairs
So when you get a roof inspection report from a certified roof inspector, you’re getting a number that you can use to plan and prepare for future repair costs, according to Cate Deventer, a licensed Property & Casualty insurance specialist.
Want a Reliable, Experienced Local Company to Inspect Your Roof?
Sure, we’re a roofing company and this blog promotes roofing services, but don’t just take our word for it. Ask insurance companies, friends who’ve had problems with their roofing system, Google, or any real estate expert—and you’ll find that we’re telling the truth when it comes to stressing the importance of regular roof inspections and preventative maintenance.
While you might be tempted to climb a ladder and inspect your own roof, or think you will save money if you hire a general handyman to make a repair, a licensed roofing professional can provide an increased level of expertise and knowledge that can’t be matched. In the long run, you will save money and be protected too.
Who you hire is up to you, but if you’re looking for a reliable local company with tons of experience, Sentinel Roofing is here to help. For answers to questions, more information, or to request an estimate or service call, contact us today.