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What Constitutes a Good Roof Inspection

Submitted by HankJaworowski on March 23, 2010 - 2:40pm.

A vital component of a complete home inspection is the inspection of the current roof. Every home inspection company is different, some may or may not climb a ladder but if the roof is walkable the best type of inspection is to be up close to the roof's surface. From the inside of the home, if possible we go into the attic or opened crawlspaces, and take a close look. 

From the outside the focus will be on the following things:

1. The covering of the roof: Are there broken pieces, is there bubbling? The home inspector will try to gauge the age of the roof and can let you know the roof material and design.. 
2.  Items penetrating the roof: Your inspector will inspect the exterior skylights, vents, exterior of the chimney and anything else coming from the roof along with their flashings.
3. 

Roof framing: The outside frame of the roof will be checked for rotting, deflection, etc.                                      
4. Drainage: At the time of the roof inspection, the gutters and downspouts or drainage system is typically checked to.make sure water drains properly off the roof. 
5.  Obstructions: Your roof will be checked to make sure tree branches and leaves are not touching the surface along with other obstructions that may decrease the lifespan of the roof.  

From the inside the inspection will focus on:


1. The Decking: Signs of rot, holes, breaks, and leaks.
2. Items Penetrating Outward: The area around vents and other items penetrating out are checked for signs of leaks..
3. Inside Framing: The inside framing is checked for signs of rot, breaks, etc.


Want to keep that roof over your head in good shape?
Here are a few tips:

  • Make sure the roof drains properly, keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris.

  • Make sure nothing is touching the roof like tree branches and leaves

  • Repair leaks quickly. A leak can cause rotting in the deck. Wood rot spreads easily so catching it early is the key to prevent other major repairs. 

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