According to data from Ruby Homes, over 5 million roofs are installed each year, and an estimated 25% of homeowners expect to repair their roofs in the near future.
Between falling trees, changing seasons, and an abundance of wildlife that makes its way onto roofs, roof repair is one of the most common repairs Northeast PA homeowners will make over their lives. It’s also one of the most expensive.
For this reason, roof inspections are an essential aspect of the home inspection when purchasing or selling a home.
This guide will discuss what to expect in a roof inspection during a home inspection and what tools and methods companies like Mountain to Valley Home Inspections make during the inspection process.
Why Roof Inspections Are Essential During Home Inspections
Opposite the foundation, the roof is an essential structural component of the home, protecting its interior components from damage and the people inside from injury. According to the IBHS, roof damage is responsible for an estimated 70%-90% of total insured residential catastrophic losses.
Roofs in Pennsylvania are especially susceptible to damage from storms and falling debris that can occur from overgrown trees.
We recommend regular roof inspections every five years at least to detect potential repairs and damage that could impact other components of your home. However, a roof inspection is essential when buying as it can help you:
- Avoid costly repairs.
- Protect the safety of those inhabiting the home.
- Help budget for future repairs or provide an accurate estimate of the longevity of your roof.
On the seller’s side, a roof inspection can help you make repairs before putting the home on the market or allow you to increase the value by marketing the roof’s condition in your listing.
What to Expect During a Roof Inspection
Understanding how our team of home inspectors analyzes your roof can help you feel more confident in your roof inspection.
All roof inspections start with an exterior inspection that searches for signs of damage, such as missing shingles, cracked tiles, or debris buildup. Our inspections also inspect nearby structures, such as gutters and flashing, that are essential for preventing moisture, pests, and debris from entering your home or damaging your foundation.
If accessible, we will also analyze your attic or ceiling for an interior inspection to look for any signs of past water damage or leaks.
All information will be provided to buyers and sellers, along with suggestions to help each party decide the best course of action to repair or replace their roof.
Roof Inspection Methods and Tools
Roof inspectors employ various tools and techniques to assess the home’s roof accurately and thoroughly. Some of these include:
- Visual Inspections: Using training and research from leading home inspection agencies, our technicians will look for signs of damage and potential repairs.
- Drone Inspection with Thermal Imaging: Our team employs an advanced drone that gives us a crystal clear image of the roof in areas that may be hard to reach. Our drones are also equipped with thermal imaging, allowing us to analyze the heat profile to see if any areas of heat loss could be driving up your utility bills or causing leaks.
- Core Sampling: In some cases where flat roofs or commercial properties are involved, some core sampling may be done to examine the layers underneath the roof to examine moisture levels and material integrity.
Core sampling is a more invasive inspection method in which a small section of the roof is removed to examine the layers beneath. This technique is primarily used for flat roofs and commercial properties. Core sampling provides detailed insights into:
What Factors Influence Roof Inspection Costs
Roof inspections are a huge driver of your overall home inspection costs. However, the cost of a specific roof inspection or a general home inspection will be influenced by the same factors:
- Type of Inspection: Different methods, like visual, thermal imaging, or drone inspections, have varying costs based on the equipment and expertise required.
- Roof Size and Complexity: Larger or more complex roofs, such as those with multiple angles or layers, require more time and effort, increasing the inspection cost.
- Roof Material: Some materials, like slate or tile, may require specialized handling, adding to the overall cost.
When to Schedule a Roof Inspection
Knowing when to schedule a roof inspection can make a difference in preventing major issues. We recommend inspecting a roof at least every few years and before transacting a home or property. However, it may be ideal to inspect the roof and home in the following instances:
- After Severe Weather: Heavy storms, hail, and high winds can all cause significant damage to your roof. An inspection can alert you to potential issues that require immediate repairs.
- Presence of Leaks or Damage: If you are spotting water leaking into your home or any signs of water damage, it is ideal to get your roof inspected and repaired immediately.
- After Roof Repairs or Renovations: If you’ve recently had your roof repaired or renovated, an inspection can ensure the work was done correctly and no new issues were introduced.
A roof inspection is an essential part of the home inspection process in Northeast PA. For a trusted and thorough roof assessment and home inspection, contact the seasoned experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections for a free quote!
FAQs
What should I do if my inspection reveals significant damage?
If the inspection uncovers major issues, consider scheduling repairs as soon as possible. Some contractors offer temporary fixes if immediate repairs are not possible, especially in adverse weather.
How long does a roof inspection take?
A typical roof inspection takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the roof’s size, the inspection method, and the complexity of the issues being examined.