Know what’s going on with your home with our comprehensive guide to roof inspections. Learn the goals, costs and duration of inspections, what inspectors look for, and the role of drones in modern assessments. Discover why post-storm inspections are essential for your roof’s health.
The spring and early summer are usually when we see the most regular occurrences of stormy weather. It’s the time of year when the integrity of your home's roof and siding is especially crucial.
A thorough roof and home inspection can reveal hidden damages that, if left unchecked, might lead to significant and costly repairs down the line. In this blog, we delve into the importance of home inspections and how they safeguard your roof, siding and windows — as well as your peace of mind.
What Is the Overall Goal of a Roof Inspection?
The primary goal of a roof inspection is to assess the current condition of your roof, identify any existing damage or potential issues, and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance. This proactive approach helps homeowners prevent minor problems from escalating into major, costly repairs and extends the lifespan of the roof.
Neglecting a roof inspection after severe weather can lead to significant long-term consequences. Unaddressed wind or hail damage can result in leaks, structural damage and even the voiding of your warranty. Water infiltration due to damaged shingles can cause mold, rot and further deterioration of your home's structure. By the time the damage becomes noticeable, the repair costs can be substantial.
What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?
Roof inspectors meticulously examine several aspects of the roof. Usually, a roof inspection checklist includes:
- Shingle condition: Checking for cracks, curling or missing shingles.
- Flashing and seals: Ensuring areas around vents, chimneys and skylights are properly sealed to prevent leaks.
- Structural integrity: Assessing the roof's overall structure for signs of sagging or other damage.
- Gutters and downspouts: Ensuring all are clear of debris and properly diverting water from the home’s foundation.
How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?
At Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, roof inspection is a critical piece of our partnership with you as the homeowner. We know you have a lot of options when it comes to roof, siding and home repair — and we want you to feel confident you’re choosing a roofing local contractor who will give you and your home the best outcome. We want that to be us every time, which is why we offer our thorough home inspection for free.
With other roofing companies and local contractors who charge for a home inspection, the cost could range from being free up to $400 depending on the size and complexity of your roof.
How Long Does a Roof Inspection Take?
The duration of a roof inspection typically depends on the size and complexity of the roof. A comprehensive inspection done by someone from the Heartland team may take longer, as we want to ensure all potential issues are identified.
When you schedule a roof inspection with Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, you can expect a thorough and professional process, including:
- Initial consultation: We start by understanding your concerns and the history of your home. This helps us tailor our inspection and our estimate for repair or replacement to meet your specific needs.
- Detailed inspection: We don't just walk around the roof. Our inspectors get up close, checking shingles by hand and ensuring nothing is missed. We also inspect the attic to check for ventilation and insulation issues that could affect the roof's performance.
- Comprehensive report: After the inspection, we provide a detailed report with photos and explanations of our findings. We discuss the best course of action, whether it's a minor repair or a full roof replacement.
- Transparent estimates: We offer clear and detailed estimates, ensuring you understand the scope of work and the costs involved. We also provide options to fit your budget and needs. We believe in being fully transparent with our customers. From the initial inspection to the final repair, we keep homeowners informed about what we find and what needs to be done.
- Ongoing support: Our commitment to you doesn't end with the inspection. We have a fully staffed team, including marketing, production and office support, ensuring you always have someone to assist you. Our service team is ready to address any issues promptly, help you through the repair process and support any future needs you might have.
Can I Use a Drone To Inspect My Roof?
While using a drone for roof inspections is becoming increasingly popular, they should complement, not replace, a physical inspection by a qualified professional.
Adjusters, especially during busy storm seasons, may have multiple appointments daily and might not conduct as thorough an inspection as necessary. They might even use drones, which, while useful, cannot provide the detailed assessment needed to identify subtle issues with shingles. At Heartland, our inspections involve getting on the roof, physically checking the shingles and inspecting the attic to ensure damage isn’t hiding.
Having a contractor, like Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, present during the insurance adjuster's visit ensures any potential damage is thoroughly examined and documented. This collaborative approach helps get accurate claims and necessary repairs approved.
Should I Get My Roof Inspected After a Hail or Wind Storm?
Unlike visible damage to siding or downspouts, roof damage can be much harder to detect without a professional inspection. Wind damage can be especially deceptive. Shingles may appear intact to the untrained eye but can have underlying issues, like lifting, creasing or nail pops that prevent them from sealing properly again. These subtle damages often require a hands-on inspection to recognize.
A professional inspection can help identify storm-related damage early, allowing for timely repairs that prevent further deterioration and protect the structural integrity of your home.
Moreover, some homeowners might hesitate to file an insurance claim due to the misconception that it will increase their premiums. Homeowners' insurance, however, protects you in such events, just like health insurance covers your medical expenses. Using your insurance for its intended purpose ensures your home remains in good condition and maintains its value.
A thorough roof inspection, especially after severe weather, is essential to maintaining the integrity of your home. At Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, we are dedicated to providing detailed inspections, transparent communication and high-quality service to ensure your home remains safe and secure. Don't wait until it's too late — schedule your roof inspection today and protect your home from the hidden dangers of storm damage.
