Your roof works hard every day, protecting your home from rain, sun, wind, and everything in between. But just like any other part of your house, it needs regular check-ups to stay in top shape. Knowing when to schedule a roof inspection can save you from costly repairs and even extend the lifespan of your roof. In this guide, we’ll break down the best times to inspect your roof and what to look for during the process.
Why your roof needs extra care as the seasons change
Severe weather events are your roof’s enemy, like high winds, hailstorms, and heavy snowfall can cause damage or even worst, hidden damage. You have to be prepared for this, because you don’t want to be in the middle of a snowfall or heavy rain with leaks. Schedule preventively so you don’t have any issues mid-season.
In case there was a hailstorm or high winds situations, we genuinely recommend you to schedule a post storm inspection, this way you can spot any damage done to your roof early and act adequately.
Want a roof that last? It’s all about the inspections
Let’s give you an example: Imagine your roof get damaged by a storm, you can get it inspected right away or ignore it and let water go through, causing your roof to rot over the next few years.
If you call a roofing company and have your roof inspected, the best-case scenario is that you only need a couple of asphalt shingles replaced or a flashing on your chimney repaired, with minimal expense.
However, if you don’t call a professional roofer and let the years pass without proper waterproofing, leaks and moisture will penetrate your home, weakening its structure. This can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and even foundation issues. Now, instead of a minor repair, you’re looking at a full reroofing project, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
What happens during a roof inspection?
A professional will start doing an exterior inspection, checking for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, and structural issues. Then go inside looking for water damage, mold, and insulation issues, if any sagging areas are found or any signs of deterioration, then will perform a structural integrity assessment.
A meticulous procedure done by a professional roofer with the expertise to spot hidden issues and use specialized equipment to assess roof conditions. You can find more about the procedures during a roof inspection here.
If Your Roof is Over 10 Years Old
As your roof ages, it becomes more susceptible to wear and tear. Most asphalt shingle roofs last between 20-30 years, but after the 10-year mark, regular inspections become even more important.
Signs of an aging roof:
- Shingles losing granules
- Frequent leaks or water damage
- Warped or brittle shingles
If your roof is over a decade old, schedule inspections at least once a year to ensure it remains in good condition.
Before Installing Solar Panels
Thinking about going solar? Before installing solar panels, you’ll want to ensure your roof is in excellent shape. Because you need to ensure the roof structure can support the added weight by identifying weak spots that could affect panel placement, this avoids having to remove panels later for roof repairs
A yearly inspection could save you tens of thousands
Now that you know more about inspections and understand the positive and negative consequences of carrying out an inspection on time or not carrying it out at all, you are most likely to schedule a professional inspection and to conduct routine maintenance. By doing this, you are extending the lifespan of your roof and avoiding costly repairs.
Roof inspections aren’t just for emergencies. If it’s been a while since your last inspection, now is the perfect time to schedule one.
FAQs
- When to do a roof inspection?
At least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall. More frequent inspections may be needed after storms or if your roof is over 10 years old. - Can I inspect my roof myself?
While you can do a visual check from the ground, it’s best to hire a professional for a thorough inspection to catch hidden issues. - How much does a professional roof inspection cost?
You can get your roof inspected for free with us - What happens if I don’t inspect my roof regularly?
Neglecting roof inspections can lead to undetected damage, expensive repairs, and even premature roof replacement. - What should I do if my roof has storm damage?
Schedule an inspection as soon as possible. Prompt repairs can prevent further damage and may be necessary for insurance claims.